A GROUP of women are doing a tandem skydive to raise money for domestic abuse charities.

Melanie Hilder, 39, has teamed up with three other women from Brighton and Hove to raise money for domestic abuse charity Refuge.

Edna, Margo and Vicki are joining Melanie in a tandem skydive in March next year, and aim to raise £15,000.

Melanie, who lives in Roedean, said: “Covid-19 has seen a huge rise in domestic violence, but not all abuse is visible. We decided it would be good to raise awareness for other victims.

"It's not just men abusing women and children of course - I've been speaking to male victims and people in same-sex relationships. 

"But two women a week are dying because of an abusive partner. It’s a really scary thought."

The Argus: Clockwise from bottom left: Melanie has teamed up with Edna, Margo and Vicki to do a tandem skydive and raise money for domestic abuse charity RefugeClockwise from bottom left: Melanie has teamed up with Edna, Margo and Vicki to do a tandem skydive and raise money for domestic abuse charity Refuge

Refuge provides a range of support for victims of abuse, from legal help, to support with housing, finding refuge accommodation to protect children, and general emotional and practical support.

To donate, visit the group's JustGiving page.

If you are suffering from abuse, you can call the free Refuge 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit the website and fill out a secure form to request a safe time to be contacted, and also access live chat.