A WOMAN who has changed the lives of countless domestic violence victims is set to be honoured for her work.
Julie Robinson co-ordinates the Options domestic violence project, based within Impact Family Services in Beach Road, South Shields.
She has been nominated for a Pride of South Tyneside Award in the Safer Neighbourhoods category by Dave Owen, community safety manager at South Tyneside Council.
He said: “I would like to nominate Julie for her total dedication in helping and supporting victims of domestic violence and abuse.
“She dedicates her life to helping victims by not only supporting individuals directly as a frontline practitioner, but also campaigning more widely for better service provision for victims to ensure their safety.”
Ms Robinson chairs the South Tyneside Domestic Violence and Abuse Forum, and has organised events for the White Ribbon campaign and International Women’s Day, as well as a regional forced marriage and honour-based violence conference.
She said: “I am delighted to have been nominated for a Pride of South Tyneside Award.
“I have co-ordinated Options for nine years, and have helped so many wonderful and brave women during this time.
“However, I could not do it alone, and would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff and volunteers who really make a difference.
“One of my proudest achievements to date is bringing the Freedom Programme to South Tyneside, which has saved the lives of so many women who have suffered in silence about the abuse they had suffered.
“Many women from all ages have attended this brilliant programme, and become very different women – they have their spark back, and it’s wonderful to see.”
The Pride of South Tyneside Awards, organised by the Gazette, South Tyneside Council and the Customs House, honour the borough’s unsung heroes in 10 categories.
The awards ceremony will be held at the Temple Park Centre in South Shields on Sunday, April 28.
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