THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for a charity against domestic abuse.

Staff at Newport Women’s Aid (NWA) were presented a cheque of £11,756.22 by Waitrose staff yesterday.

The supermarket chain have been raising money for NWA since February of last year, when NWA Operations Manager, Karen Ling, met Community Champion for Waitrose, Caishnah Baum.

They’ve raised nearly £12,000 for the charity through their carrier bag levy.

Waitrose have also donated items, such as food and bedding, for women supported by the organisation.

NWA has worked with families for more than 40 years, not just helping women affected by domestic abuse, but children as well.

NWA work closely with schools and children, providing one to one support, group activities, and an Aspire youth Zone which is a safe space for people aged 11 to 16.

Funding for their child and young people (CYP) services ended in April.

NWA Operational Director, Natalie Poole, explained: “Shortfalls in funding mean that it is increasingly difficult to protect these early intervention services that seek to improve the lives of children and young people.”

It is hoped this money will help NWA to continue offering CYP support, along with aid to women affected by domestic abuse.

“The Waitrose Carrier Bag Levy Fund for all Wales raised the sum of £11,756.22,” said Ms Ling.

“This will support Newport Women’s Aid in providing much needed services to children and young people.”