Asian woman’s domestic violence crusader wins national award

The National Asian Women of Achievement Awards have this year honoured Jasvinder Sanghera, Refuge Asian affairs manager, with the Social and Humanitarian Award.

At the age of fifteen Jasvinder ran away from home to escape forced marriage.  But she has used her own personal experiences to reach out to and support women and children faced with similar fates. Every year Jasvinder supports hundreds of women in her professional and personal time in her home town of Derby.  Her on-going commitment to challenging the plight of Asian women and children experiencing domestic violence in Britain today has made her one of the most prominent female figures in her field and an inspiration to many. 

Jasvinder Sanghera, Refuge Asian affairs manager said: ‘I am thrilled to accept this award and would like to thank everyone who supported me in my nomination.  As I personally know, domestic violence and the wider issues that affect South Asian communities have for too long been a hidden crime.  Even today we live in communities where families, friends and neighbours close their eyes and ears to a woman’s suffering.  This is no longer acceptable.  Asian women and children have the right to live free from violence and free from the fear of violence and I urge women experiencing domestic violence to contact Refuge and seek help.  I have seen too much suffering, including that of my sister who committed suicide.  I want the next generation to grow up free from domestic violence.’

Sandra Horley, OBE, chief executive of Refuge said: ‘Jasvinder’s tireless work at the front-line of domestic violence makes her a very worthy winner of this award.  Her own personal experiences give her an insight into the lives of the women and children that she helps.  So many people have so much to thank her for.  Jasvinder is a great asset to Refuge and I would like to congratulate her and thank her for her commitment and energy in addressing the serious nature of domestic violence within South Asian communities.’

For more information about the awards visit www.awaawards.com