Newport-based Monmouthshire Building Society has donated £1,380 to Women's Aid Monmouthshire after the society launched a £25,000 Community Acorn Fund, to mark the achievement of a major financial milestone - £1bn in assets.

The Women's Aid group was the first recipient. The money will be used to fund three mentors for a year, ten mentor starter packs and a digital camera.

Women’s Aid Monmouthshire Ltd is the leading domestic abuse agency in Monmouthshire, providing practical and emotional support and refuge to women and children who are experiencing domestic abuse, or have experienced domestic abuse in the past.

It provides services throughout the county, including Abergavenny, Monmouth, Caldicot and Chepstow as well as surrounding rural communities.

MBS chief executive Andrew Lewis said: “The fund allowed our customers and communities to play an active role in our celebrations, and gives us the opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to our members who have helped the society reach this landmark financial position.

"I’m thrilled to see that such a deserving charity has received this donation from the society since it offers such crucial services right in the very heart of our communities.”

Women’s Aid project co-ordinator Alice Lilley said: "Mentoring can have a really positive impact. Some of the boys we meet don't have any positive male role models, and it affects their behaviour at school and at home. Receiving more than £1,000 has been a welcome boost and will fund three mentors for a year, as well as providing essential equipment that will have a significant impact on so many people’s lives.

“With funding levels being as tight as they are, we’re incredibly grateful for the support we receive from local businesses, but we’re also in desperate need of more mentors for young people. If you’d be interested in becoming a mentor then visit www.waimon.org.uk or call 01873 859011 and hopefully we can affect even more positive change in the lives of young people in and around Monmouthshire.”