A Blackburn domestic abuse charity has been awarded a grant for new mental health roles as its clients with vulnerabilities rise by 200 per cent.

The Wish Centre, on Eanam Old Road, supports families who have been affected by domestic abuse and has seen a huge increase in clients with mental health needs, rising by 200 per cent since 2018.

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Named the Resilient and Strong Project, the Wish Centre has been awarded a grant by the National Lottery to fund a mental health IDVA, a wellbeing practitioner, and a counselling coordinator to provide targeted support for service users in Blackburn with Darwen with additional needs.

Sophie Hoyle from The Wish Centre said: “On average, 32 per cent of people referred into our service also have issues with mental health – that’s almost one in every three people.

“The lottery grant will enable us to provide tailored support for these individuals, helping them to not only live a life free from domestic abuse, but also improve their overall mental wellbeing when it is needed most.”

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David Dunwell from Lancashire Mind added: “Any funding that is brought into the county to support the amazing Lancashire community with their mental health is amazing news and this project in particular provides a much-needed and innovative way to support victims of domestic abuse.

“We are looking forward to working alongside and supporting The Wish Centre, who do amazing work supporting women.”