Gordon Ramsay backs Camden Safety Net

Published: 11th November, 2010
by TOM FOOT

CELEBRITY chef Gordon Ramsay has backed a campaign to save Camden’s domestic violence support service.

In a statement sent to the New Journal, Mr Ramsay – currently appearing in the Ramsay’s Best Restaurant series on Channel 4 – said the under-threat Camden Safety Net was “invaluable”.

The service provides domestic abuse victims with free counselling sessions, referrals, legal advice, parenting support and group workshops.

But its celebrated group sessions and workshops were stopped in September due to reduced funding from the Town Hall, sparking a campaign by those keen to see the lifeline service continue.

Mr Ramsay said: “The work that the victim support group does is invaluable, they provide the support and care that these women so badly need, not just now but in the long-run too.”

Campaigners produced a 20-page book of experiences at Camden Safety Net that was delivered to Mr Ramsay in September.

The chef has previously fought against domestic abuse alongside his mother, Helen, who has spoken out on how her ex-husband “savagely abused” her for 22 years. Ramsay also “bore the brunt of his violence”, she said in a statement for the charity Women’s Aid.

On Monday night, Safety Net member and abuse victim Suzanne Winser, 29, from Belsize Park, presented a petition to the Town Hall containing 812 signatures.

Ms Winser said: “Without the survivors’ groups I believe I would have certainly had a mental breakdown, and quite possibly returned to my violent partner. 

“Recently I once again faced harassment and court cases concerning my ex-partner, confirming the fact that recovery from domestic abuse is ongoing, and therefore these support groups are essential.”

She added: “We are fully aware, and sympathetic to Camden Council’s position in terms of recent funding cuts, but we urge you to look at more affordable alternatives.”

The council said this week it can not give any guarantees about the service until December. Community Safety chief Councillor Abdul Hai said he took the service “extremely seriously”.

He added: “You have to recognise that the government has passed on a burden of responsibility to the council. It looks like the Community Safety budget will be worse hit than any other area. We are having a review. It will be a difficult decision – but we will ensure it is fair. Domestic violence remains a key priority and provides ongoing support to victims.”