The Hollie Gazzard Trust is appealing for people to support them during their first ever Big Give Christmas Challenge, with donations made during the campaign set to be doubled.

The Big Give Christmas Challenge is the UK's biggest match funding campaign and takes place from noon December 1 and noon December 8.

The Trust was set up after the murder of Hollie Gazzard by a former partner. Hollie had experienced domestic abuse and stalking prior to being fatally stabbed at her place of work.

The Hollie Gazzard Trust helps reduce domestic violence through creating and delivering programmes on domestic abuse and promoting healthy relationships to schools, colleges and other organisations. In 2015 HGT launched Hollie Guard, our free app which transforms your smartphone into an advanced personal safety device.

The Trust has secured match funding of £3,600 for the Christmas Challenge, including £1,500 from The Reed Foundation, meaning that during the Christmas Challenge your generous donations will be doubled by the match funding pot.

Klara Sudbury, the charity's fundraising manager said: "We are really excited to be to have been chosen to take part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge 2020. This is the first time we have taken part; it is a great opportunity for us to engage with our supporters and local businesses, to raise vital funds for victims of domestic abuse and stalking. Please get involved in any way that you can and help us reach our target. The more money we raise the more people we will be able to help."

"Through our fundraising this year, we have been able to provide over 1,000 vouchers for people who are vulnerable or victims of crime to use our 24/7 professional monitoring service Hollie Guard Extra free of charge. We know HGE is making a difference, helping people stay safe during these especially difficult times. With your help we will be able to offer this innovative service to more people," Klara added.

Launched in 2015, Hollie Guard is a free app developed to enhance individual personal safety. Hollie Guard turns your Smartphone into an advanced personal safety device at the touch of a button.

Nick Gazzard, Hollie's father and founder of the trust said: "We regularly receive gifts from people who donate instead of giving Christmas cards, or even those who get into the festive spirit and give over Christmas. We know this is a difficult time for everyone, so anything you can contribute is greatly received.

"Alternatively, you and your friends, family or colleagues could fundraise for us by holding a cake sale, online event, doing a sponsored walk or any other idea you have."

Donations have to be made via https://donate.thebiggive.org.uk/campaign/a051r00001fGSVUAA4.