Domestic abuse survivor launches fundraiser to buy books and games for Moray Women's Aid this Christmas
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A FORRES woman and former bookshop owner is raising money to provide books and games for mums and children seeking shelter at Moray Women's Aid this Christmas.
As a mum who had to flee an abusive marriage herself, Sarah Coulson (46) has experienced how difficult the festive period can be for women and children on the first steps of rebuilding their lives after experiencing domestic violence.
Sarah, who ran Forres High Street shop "The Bookmark" alongside her mum between 1995-98, has now organised a "Community Book Pledge" through her role as an independent Usborne Books partner.
She is fundraising to give free Usborne books and games to Moray Women's Aid. Usborne will contribute an additional 10 per cent of the total raised to the charity.
Sarah said: "This would provide books, activities, games, painting books, mental health books etc for the youngsters and for their mums who have been affected by domestic abuse to give them some much-needed joy at a difficult time of year."
She added: "I am a survivor of domestic abuse myself. It's a cause that's very close to my heart knowing what a struggle it can be at Christmas. You want to still make it special for the children even when you are going through a difficult time.
"When I had to leave my marriage, my daughter was only 10 months old. We'd left pretty much everything behind.
"Most women, I expect, who seek help from a shelter or refuge are in a situation where they've taken very little with them.
"Christmas is such a family-focused time. When you're dealing with so much as a mum, trying to make it happy for the kids, just having enough money to get a few presents is tough.
"I remember having to buy my daughter presents with vouchers I'd saved up for Boots and things like that.
"It's a struggle financially and so much more of a struggle emotionally.
"I just want to make a difference to those that are going through that currently and let them know that people are thinking of them.
"Books and games are a great way for mums and children to spend quality time together. The opportunity to curl up together with a low-key activity provides space to tune out for a while and focus on something nice."
Elle Johnston, service manager at Moray Women's Aid, said: "We were absolutely delighted when Sarah approached us about her idea. Again someone from the community has stepped up to the mark to help us.
"It will be great to get our children's library up to date. We really appreciate the gesture."
People can donate to Sarah's JustGiving fundraiser here.
