Glasgow Women‘s Aid was established in 1973 as part of the second wave of the women‘s liberation movement. During this time women recognised that there was a need to provide support to women who were experiencing domestic abuse. Initially the focus was on the women‘s experiences but as the organisation evoloved our focus included children and young people. To begin with we relied completely on donations and volunteers however we are now funded through Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and other funders to provide 37 family spaces in 7 refuge bases across the city and employ 45 workers.
Our workers have the following remits:-
Glasgow Women's Aid works from a feminist perspective which acknowledges that the root cause of the abuse of women and children is the imbalance of power which exists within our society and allows men more power.
The development of our service provision over the last 30 plus years has been guided by the women, children and young people that we have supported. They have been our inspiration.
Our public access office is located at 30 Bell St, Candleriggs, in the Merchant city area of Glasgow city centre. This is where most women will make their first contact with us, whether in person or by telephone. This is a drop in facility, so no appointment is necessary. We have private support rooms where women can speak to workers with a play area incorporated for any children that they may have with them. Women can access our service for as long as they feel necessary.
We are affiliated with Scottish Women's Aid and are one of over 40 women's aid groups throughout Scotland (see Useful Contacts).