Hundreds rallied against proposed cuts to a vital domestic abuse service. Workers fear the changes will endanger victims.
Solace wants to merge funding and explore redeployment, saying they will still support survivors. Abu Talha Chowdhury spoke about the issue, stating the council met with the union and IDVAs. They discussed Solace’s proposed redundancies.
The protest took place outside Tower Hamlets Town Hall. Solace is independent and contracted by the council, which isn’t involved in Solace’s staffing. The union said the team could be cut by a third, which could hurt service users badly.
The rally included speeches from Solace workers, union members, councillors, and Apsana Begum, MP. Begum stressed the importance of the service, saying It helps residents in the borough.
One worker said the cuts were heartbreaking, adding that services should grow, not shrink. They also said crime could rise with fewer resources and workers will face burnout, struggling to support victims fully.
Julia Veros attended the rally to show support, saying society must help those facing abuse. Leaving victims without aid is unacceptable. The service helps high-risk domestic violence survivors, providing emotional support and information.
Workers help victims with legal and money issues and assist with immigration barriers. Tower Hamlets has high domestic abuse rates. Solace handled 1,139 referrals between April and December 2024, supporting 227 survivors.
Solace CEO Nahar Choudhury hopes to resolve the issue and find solutions with staff and the union. Finding solutions helps both their survivors and staff.