COURAGEOUS women who survived violence and abuse attended a reception at the House of Commons to celebrate their achievements. About 150 guests from the Asian Women s Resource Centre in Craven Park, Harlesden, were invited to the event to mark the 30th a

COURAGEOUS women who survived violence and abuse attended a reception at the House of Commons to celebrate their achievements.

About 150 guests from the Asian Women's Resource Centre in Craven Park, Harlesden, were invited to the event to mark the 30th anniversary of the charity on Wednesday last week.

The event, which was hosted by Lib Dem MP for Brent East, Sarah Teather, paid tribute to those women who had experienced violence and abuse but went on to lead positive lives following the guidance and support of the AWRC.

Ms Teather said: "The Asian Women's Resource Centre is a critical lifeline for many women who have no other way of accessing the support they need. I am delighted to be highlighting their important work in the House of Commons."

Baroness Helena Kennedy, QC, said: "We are here to celebrate the achievements of a charity that changes lives and has grown into the most extraordinary organisation."

The centre provides support to women and children from black, minority, ethnic and refugee backgrounds, who have suffered domestic violence, sexualised crimes, forced marriages, honour based violence and trafficking.

It operates an open door policy, tackling the challenges associated with abuse such as homelessness, welfare benefits, child contact and immigration, helping around 4,500 women each year.

Auzar Irani, who was helped by the charity, said: "It was heartening for me to realise that there were people who, without knowing anything about me, came to my rescue.

"The AWRC has given me a new lease of life and helped me realise that I have a right to a life with dignity."

The charity provides free, confidential services including advice and information, counselling, advocacy, legal advice surgeries, family planning services, outreach and support services.

For more information log on to www.asianwomencentre.org.uk