A Barnsley domestic abuse charity has launched a £20,000 fundraising appeal to protect the future of its women’s support centre, The Lotus.
Resolute Women’s Support Services says a shortage of unrestricted funding is putting the centre at risk of closure. Its Save The Lotus appeal runs until 16 November 2026.
The charity provides advocacy, counselling, peer support and practical help for women experiencing or recovering from domestic abuse. The Lotus brings services together at its publicly advertised centre on Regent Street South in Barnsley town centre.
Help with the costs of staying open
Money raised will contribute towards rent, utilities, insurance, maintenance and the delivery of support services. The charity says this would give it time to seek longer-term funding and partnerships.
Resolute was founded by Deborah Jones in 2021 and registered as a charity in 2023. Jones has spoken publicly about drawing on her own experience of domestic abuse to establish the service.
She said: “The Lotus is more than just a support centre. It’s somewhere women can feel safe, listened to and believed, often at a time when they need it most.”
She added: “We’re asking the Barnsley community and local businesses to help us protect The Lotus and the vital services it provides.”
How the community can help
The charity is asking residents, community groups and businesses to donate, share the campaign or discuss other ways of supporting its work. Its coffee shop, charity retail activities and volunteering opportunities also support the organisation.
Readers can visit the Save The Lotus crowdfunding appeal to donate or share the campaign. No closing date for the centre itself has been announced.