The Maia Support Line is for young women and girls aged 13-25, who need someone to talk to. They may be in or around unhealthy relationships with family, friends or a partner, having difficulties at school, or feeling low or alone. Parents, carers, education, health and youth professionals will be able to benefit from the support line too.
Frances Rahman, Head of Young Women and Girls Services at Advance, said:
The Maia Support Line reflects Advance’s ongoing commitment to creating a safer, more just and equal world, ensuring support for those navigating difficult situations. Young women and girls are disproportionately affected by domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
The likelihood of abuse increases as age decreases, with young women aged 16-17 the most at risk. And it doesn’t STOP there. Domestic abuse has a devastating, long-lasting impact on the lives of survivors.
With nowhere to turn for support, many young women and girls are left traumatised by their experiences and can go onto experience further harm, including being excluded from school or getting caught up in the criminal justice system.
The Support Line will be operated by staff and peer mentors from Advance’s Maia service that helps young women and girls through one-to-one support, mentoring and group work.
Maia is at the heart of Advance’s early intervention and prevention work – a key aspect of the government’s pledge to cut Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) within 10 years.
It’s a pioneering service that helps young women and girls to not just be safe, but to fulfil aspirations and live their best lives.
To get in touch and speak to someone who understands and can support you, call the MAIA Support Line on 0800 059 0117. Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. You can also email maia@advancecharity.org.uk
Media enquiries
For more information, please contact Tracie Couper, Press Officer at Advance, at tracie.c@advancecharity.org.uk or on 0743 2700 287.