VOLUNTEERS have been out in force to help vulnerable children fleeing domestic violence.

Last Saturday volunteers from children’s charity The Buddy Bag Foundation, which supports children escaping violent home lives, packed 180 support bags in Witham for children who go in to emergency care.

The youngsters, who often leave situations of domestic violence at short notice, leave all of their own possessions behind so the Buddy Bag gives them treasured toys and essentials they can call their own.

Founder Karen Williams said: “Every bag we pack means that we are helping one more child who desperately needs our support at such a traumatic time in their life.

“It may seem like such a little thing but every volunteer who has helped to pack a bag or company that has donated items such as toothbrushes, books or toys is helping to make a really big difference to young people’s lives. I cannot thank the volunteers and donators enough.”

Mrs Williams started the charity after finding out about a similar scheme in Australia.

Each month volunteers help to pack toys and essential items in to age specific bags as part of the Buddy Bag scheme.

The bags are then distributed to refuges across the country for children taken in to emergency care.

Leah Ellison, who volunteers for the charity, said: “There is a real sense of achievement every time we finish packing the buddy bags. It is great to know that I am part of something that will make a real difference.

"I cannot imagine what the children are going through when they are taken from their homes and arrive into care.

"So, if the few hours I take to put the items in to a bag can offer these youngsters some comfort then it is more than worthwhile.”

Buddy Bag Foundation is always looking for volunteers or donations of toys or essentials.

For more information visit buddybagfoundation.co.uk.