As we step into a new year, we’re incredibly proud to announce a major milestone: Safenet is celebrating 50 years of supporting survivors of domestic abuse, helping people escape harm, regain control, and rebuild safer, happier lives.
Safenet emerged in Burnley in the mid‑1970s, when women experiencing domestic abuse at home came together to create a support group. It was a time when abuse was rarely acknowledged, often dismissed as a “private matter” and absent from public or political agendas.
Consequently, there were no formal domestic abuse support services. The 1970s was a time of great social change; the Women’s Liberation Movement in the UK was challenging the status quo, demanding equal pay and equal rights in the workplace and the home, and fighting to change attitudes and improve conditions in society for everyone. It was in this progressive climate that the support group women in Burnley became committed activists to help and support local women and children.
With minimal resources but a rent‑free 4-bed terraced house provided by Burnley Council, they opened the first safe refuge in 1976, establishing vital safe refuge space for women and children in Burnley whose lives were otherwise at risk behind closed doors.
Fast‑forward five decades to 2026, and our charity has grown and transformed beyond recognition, delivering lifesaving services across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. We’ve supported tens of thousands of survivors to safer, healthier and happier lives. Our mission remains as urgent as ever, and our determination to advance equality, safety, and life‑changing support has only grown stronger.
This anniversary year, we’ll be honouring the progress we’ve made, the lives we’ve helped save, and the strength and courage of every survivor who has walked through our doors, and we look forward to supporting many more who will depend on us in the years ahead.
Stay tuned for updates on our 2026 celebrations, including special events and activities for friends, supporters, and survivors. We’d love you to be part of this milestone year and celebrate with us.
Helen Gauder,
Safenet Director