A CHARITY that supports victims of sexual and domestic abuse re-launched this week in Hampshire, backed by radio DJ Rob Da Bank.

Yellow Door, formerly known as Southampton Rape crisis, has opened a new centre in Southampton that will provide crucial services to young people over the age of 11, men, women and families.

More than 50 guests attended the opening, including mayor of Southampton, Councillor Cathie McEwing, councillors and staff.

Also in attendance was radio DJ and creator of music festivals Bestival and Camp Bestival, Rob Da Bank.

Rob, who is also a trustee of the Wight Aid Foundation, awarded the service a £10,000 cheque.

The former radio one DJ was born in Portsmouth but grew up in Southampton.

He has always had a strong connection with the city and even created the city’s biggest music festival, Common People. 

WightAID raises funds from businesses operating on the Island, and distributes it to a range of charities and good causes.

Yellow Door was granted £10,000 to offer therapeutic support for residents who have experienced sexual violence, in the Isle of Wight. 

The charity will also raise awareness by visiting schools and youth centres.

“I am honoured to represent The Wight Aid Foundation in providing funding for Yellow Door to provide such an essential service for those living on the Island in need of this support,” he said.

Guests were shown the new facilities of the charity and were given presentations about the services Yellow Door will provide.

The organisation has helped thousands of the city’s most vulnerable people for almost 32 years. 

Chair of Trustees at Yellow Door, Linda Stone said: “Our new building and the environment we are able to offer here, calm, welcoming and spacious, will I think prove to be a hopeful place for many more people in the years to come.

“Suitably skilled and trained volunteers currently participate in the delivery of group work with young people, family therapy and counselling.

"We are very grateful for everything they do.”

The Independent Sexual Violence Advisors team also celebrated their 10-year anniversary. The team provide support to those affected by sexual crime, and those in the Criminal Justice System.