A CHARITY based in Lochgelly has announced its devastating closure.

Saje Scotland has had to sadly reveal that it will close its doors for the final time next Wednesday, August 31.

The social enterprise has aimed to facilitate groups for any woman who wants support and information of how to move towards living a life free of abuse.

The groups have looked at the wide range and types of abuse women can experience and the impacts of abuse on women, children and our society.

Since 2014, the charity has helped 15,000 women and girls to "reach their own potential and live independently without fear of abuse, harm and coercion".

However, due to being unable to secure long-term statutory funding, a decision has been made on its future.

In a statement published this afternoon, the charity based at Ore Valley Business Centre, said: "We are devastated to announce the closure of Saje Scotland.

"Our doors will close on August 31.

"Since 2014, the charity has provided vital support for women and girls subjected to domestic abuse, enabling them to fully recover and move forward positively and safely with their lives.

"Over 15,000 women and girls have been empowered by Saje to reach their own potential and live independently without fear of abuse, harm and coercion.

"Throughout our time, we have also worked with schools and many local organisations to raise awareness and change societal attitudes and stigmas about domestic abuse.

"We are incredibly grateful to all of the wonderful trusts, foundation, and donors who supported us this far. However, despite our very best efforts, we were unable to secure long-term, statutory funding; this was, ultimately, what we needed to continue.

"We do not underestimate the concern that the closure may cause those who use our service. We will fulfil our final term of groups – ending in November – in a voluntary capacity. Sadly, we cannot take any further referrals.

"We would like to thank everyone involved in the charity. We have been supported and inspired by so many fantastic volunteers, who’ve been the heartbeat of the organisation, and we simply could not have done it without them.

"So many have given up their time and offered their expertise to help Saje along the way. Thank you to everyone who served on our Board of Directors, the team at Ore Valley, and Fife Voluntary Action - to name just a few.

"Our dedicated staff have always gone over and above to make the charity a success. We’re incredibly proud of everything that we have achieved.

"It has been a very fulfilling journey – that we hope to be able to continue in the future."