A HARD-WORKING woman has been recognised for supporting some of the most vulnerable in her community during recent months.

Louise Rudd, who works at North Wales Police, has been recognised as a “Community Champion” by Hannah Blythyn, Delyn’s MS.

Working from the Canolfan in Ffynnongroyw, Louise has set up a ‘pop-up shop’ to support those fleeing from domestic abuse.

She has been receiving donations of clothing and donating any proceeds to a domestic abuse charity.

By asking colleagues and the wider community for donations, Louise has managed to collect a year’s supply of clothing and also has enough to provide emergency clothing herself.

The Community Champions scheme launched by Delyn MS, Hannah Blythyn, aims to recognise the contributions of individuals, businesses and community groups, who have gone over and above in recent months to support some of the most vulnerable in communities.

On receiving the award, Louise said: “I am so grateful to whoever nominated me for this Award, but I did what I did because I wanted to help those in need.

“It has been great to see the level of support from colleagues and the wider community and I really do hope that the community spirit we’ve seen recently continues.”

In recent years North Wales Police has seen a significant increase in the number of domestic abuse cases, with over 11,000 crimes recorded in 2018-19, the largest increase in Wales at the time.

Recognising the importance of the work Louise has done, Hannah Blythyn MS said: “Stories like Louise’s are exactly the kind that need to be recognised in our communities. Despite continuing to work under the pressures which coronavirus presented us with, Louise still went over and above.

“No one should face domestic abuse.

“We need to ensure that those who need our support, receive it, whether it’s the emotional support, or the physical shelter and clothing they need.”

Anyone wishing to nominate to the Community Champions scheme should contact Ms Blythyn on 01352 762102 or at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales.

For those experiencing domestic violence there is support available:

The Live Fear Free Helpline is a 24 hour helpline for women, children and men experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence or other forms of violence against women on 0808 80 10 800.

If you can’t talk in safety, but you need help immediately, police forces across Wales will respond to a silent 999 call – dial 999 followed by 55 to indicate that you can’t talk, but need help.