The First Step - Refuge

The Refuge is a 36 bed accommodation for women and children who are escaping domestic abuse of any kind. Staff are on site 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and offer group and one to one support to the women who live here. The Children's Service targets the needs of the children and young people who come into refuge. Age appropriate play and group sessions are complimented by one to one support helping them to come to terms with their experiences of abuse whilst developing their confidence, self esteem and resillience. 

Referrals are accepted from partner agencies as well as self-referrals. We accept women with children as well as those who either do not have children or have children that are currently not in their care. We are able to accommodate varying sized families and unlike some refuges accept dependant children (male and female) up to the age of 17.

The Refuge is a bright, friendly refuge for women and children. It is clean and comfortable, providing family suites with your own private bedrooms and bathroom; women will share a fully fitted kitchen with one other family. Single women have their own private bedroom and will share a bathroom with one other woman and a kitchen with up to three other women. 

All of the kitchens are fully equipped with necessary items including fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster, microwave and washer/dryer as well as cutlery, plates and cooking utensils. Each bedroom has two single beds, a wardrobe and two small storage units, cots and moses baskets are also available if required. There is also a television with freeview in each room.  

When you arrive at The Refuge you will be given fresh bedding, towels and a small toiletries pack to help get you started. The refuge has a number of communal areas including a spacious lounge, training and computer room, which also houses the gym equipment, and two children’s activity rooms which include a computer and television to be used by the children/young people for homework or games. 

Smaller private rooms are available for personal support sessions with staff and relevant support related phone calls. 

What you can expect whilst living in The Refuge:

• A safe, comfortable place to live
• A supportive and friendly environment
• Staff who will listen to you without making any judgments
• Confidential one to one support
• Weekly opportunities to see a GP, Nurses or Health Visitor if you need them
• Support in applying for all of the benefits you’re entitled to
• A weekly ‘house meeting’ which gives you the opportunity to exchange views on how the refuge operates and suggest alternatives or improvements
• Friendly tea/coffee and toast mornings
• Staff on site 24 hours a day every day 

Throughout your stay in the Refuge, staff will support you in looking at your options and deciding where you want to live; whether that is returning to your previous property, if it is safe to do so, or looking for a completely fresh start in a new area.