Vale Domestic Abuse Services Hosts Inaugural Gala Dinner on International Women’s Day to Empower Survivors and Celebrate Women’s Resilience
International Women’s Day gala raises £10,000 for Vale Domestic Abuse Services
An International Women’s Day Gala held at The Bear, Cowbridge on 7th March 2025 has raised an incredible £10,000 for Vale Domestic Abuse Services. The evening, which attracted over 120 attendees, was a resounding success in supporting survivors of domestic abuse across the Vale of Glamorgan.
The event brought together business leaders, charity supporters, survivors, and key political figures, including Vale of Glamorgan MP Kanishka Narayan and Member of the Senedd Jane Hutt. The evening was hosted by ITV’s Ruth Dodsworth, who generously shared her personal experience of domestic abuse, offering a powerful and moving testimony.
The guests also heard from Vicky Friis, Chief Executive of Vale Domestic Abuse Services, who highlighted the increasing demand for frontline support. Over the past year, the charity has seen a staggering 30% rise in women reaching out for support, further underscoring the urgent need for services. Vicky also addressed the critical issue of sustainable funding for aftercare services, such as counselling, one-on-one support, therapeutic group work, and wellbeing activities, which are vital for helping survivors rebuild their independence and break the cycle of abuse.
In addition to the powerful speeches, the evening also featured courageous survivors who shared their personal stories. Their bravery left a lasting impact on all in attendance and underscored the importance of continued support for those affected by domestic abuse. Guests were also shown a video made by Vale Domestic Abuse Services, where members of the local community read out survivor testimony to show their support and encourage others to come forward for help.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG8YtvrIk67/?igsh=MXB5bmFodW82a3lldA==
The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of its sponsors. Natasha Leigh Bray of the School of Healing Mastery was the headline sponsor, with additional support from Cardo Group, Steffi Andrews Branding, and Soul Films. Guests also enjoyed a drinks reception sponsored by Hensol Castle Distillery and received welcome gifts of jewellery with healing crystals from The Angel Collective.
All funds raised will go directly to supporting the charity’s work, which currently helps over 1,000 women and more than 200 children each year who have experienced domestic abuse. Vale Domestic Abuse Services provides essential aftercare services that help survivors regain control of their lives and move beyond the trauma of abuse.
The charity is deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of the gala. Vicky Friis, Chief Executive of Vale Domestic Abuse Services, commented, “We are overwhelmed by the generosity shown by everyone who attended, sponsored, and supported this event. The funds raised will provide 200 hours of aftercare support for women across The Vale, helping them in their journey to independence.”
The charity is overwhelmed with the positive reception to the event and looks forward to building on this success with another gala planned for 2026.
