A charity working to break the cycle of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking has received more than £6,500 by regional law firm Goughs Solicitors.
The sum was raised by employees at the firm, which has seven offices across Wiltshire, after FearFree became it charity partner for 2023/24.
Over the 12 months Goughs staff took part in a variety of fundraising events, pictured, ranging from a 25km walk through the Cotswolds to a pub quiz, a bake-off and a raffle of gifts donated for the firm’s Christmas party.
Two intrepid employees braved a skydive while others completed the Bath Half Marathon.
FearFree, based in Trowbridge, supports more than 3,500 adults and children every year – not only keeping them safe but helping them to rebuild their lives free from fear and abuse.
The charity’s support is tailored to the individual’s needs and experiences – from crisis intervention through to one-to-one or group work recovery sessions, specialised employment and education programmes.
FearFree recognises that abuse has no bounds and all its services are free and open to all genders, sexualities, backgrounds and beliefs.
Following the end of its year as Goughs’ chosen charity, the firm is continuing its commitment to FearFree by staging a free monthly family law clinic for it.
FearFree head of fundraising Jessica Gay said: “We want to say a massive thank you to everyone at Goughs Solicitors for supporting us.
“It’s been inspiring to see everyone’s commitment at the firm to support our work, which is often deemed hidden and taboo, helping us raise that vital awareness of our services, break down stigmas and raise life changing funds to help families access our service.
“Goughs’ team threw themselves into supporting us and we couldn’t be more grateful.
“On top of this, the family law team has offered their specialist support to our clients and they now volunteer to run a joint monthly legal clinic for any client to access free legal advice.”
Goughs’ latest charity of the year is Scotty’s Little Soldiers, which supports children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces.
The firm’s previous charities of the year have included Julia’s House Hospice, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Wiltshire Mind.
To find out more about Goughs’ charity work, or to put forward a charity for the firm to support next year, visit goughs.co.uk/charity
Goughs Solicitors, which was established in 1882, employs more than 100 people providing legal services for both individuals and businesses including divorce & separation, arrangements for children, employment, Wills, Trusts & Probate, commercial & residential property services and real estate & corporate services.
Its office network includes bases in Chippenham, Trowbridge, Melksham and Corsham.
