In its first year Lancashire Refuges has supported over 600 women and children in 10 Refuges across Lancashire.
The countywide domestic abuse support service led by SafeNet Domestic Abuse and Support Services in partnership with Fylde Coast Women’s Aid (FCWA), The Liberty Centre and Progress Housing Association, offers a wide level of immediate support to victims of domestic abuse with a single point of access to accept referrals from across Lancashire.
Whilst this figure shows just how many people this life saving service currently supports, it is recognised that there is still much more work to do, as they are still only able to accommodate 27% of the referrals they receive. Meaning that just under three quarters of those living with domestic abuse in Lancashire are not yet able access support in a Refuge setting.
In July, Lancashire Refuges successfully expanded their existing refuge provision with a new SafeNet refuge opened in Lancaster despite the COVID-19 pandemic. By offering additional 24 hour emergency accommodation in a brand new specially converted 20-bed refuge facility, that offers both traditional refuge and additional complex needs support.
One resident said: “When I left home with my son, I was so afraid of the decision I’d made. The help I have received here has helped me to believe that I can live a normal life”
Helen Gauder, Manging Director SafeNet said “We are proud of the women and children we have supported this year as they work towards safer, healthier and happier futures. And we will continue to deliver quality accommodation with specialist bespoke support to keep all victims and survivors safe. We are working to strengthen and extend refuge services to ensure we can sustain and grow our services to meet the increasing demand for safe refuge spaces in Lancashire.”
County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: “The work of our commissioned refuges is vitally important in order for us protect and support some of our most vulnerable people in Lancashire. SafeNet and partners do a tremendous job in helping us to keep women and children safe. They have provided proactive, innovative and responsive services, especially during some particularly difficult times over the last few months.”
To access Lancashire Refuges 24 hours a day, 365 days a year call 0300 303 3581.For more information about Lancashire Refuges, visit www.lancashirerefuges.org.uk