About Us & How To Support Us

Survive is a small, registered charity offering professional, one-to-one counselling to adult survivors (aged 14 and over) childhood of abuse. We specialise in supporting those affected by childhood abuse – sexual, emotional, domestic, physical, neglect & psychological. 

Our roots go back to 1989, when we were founded as the Vale Royal Women’s Support Group. The group emerged in response to a clear and overwhelming need for support, information, and a safe space for those coping with the trauma of childhood abuse. In the early days, volunteers — many without formal counselling qualifications — provided a vital listening ear and peer support.

By 1993, we had expanded to Crewe, where a number of volunteer counsellors began offering support to local survivors.

In 1994, we became known as Survive, reflecting a more professional approach and a commitment to supporting all survivors — regardless of gender. We became a registered charity in 1995 and established our own in-house training programme to ensure a consistent, high-quality service.

With the support of a National Lottery grant, we moved into our current premises in 1999. The building offers purpose-designed counselling rooms, a training room, and office space — creating a warm, safe, and welcoming environment for both clients and volunteers.

Donating to Survive

As a small, volunteer-run charity, fundraising is always a challenge — especially because we could never ask our clients to share their stories to raise money on our behalf.

That’s why we rely on the generosity of people who believe in what we do. Every donation helps us continue offering free, confidential support to survivors of abuse through counselling, art therapy, and social connection.

If you believe in creating a safer, more compassionate world for survivors of childhood abuse, please consider supporting Survive.

Your donation truly makes a difference.