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Refuge Offers Hope: Second Site Opens for Abused Women
30 Jun
Summary
- Specialist refuge for women fleeing abuse is opening a second site.
- The service provides support for complex needs, including addiction.
- Residents report life-changing and life-saving results from the program.
A specialist refuge in north-east England, run by the charity Harbour, is set to open a second site this summer. This expansion follows significant success in supporting women with complex needs who are fleeing domestic abuse.
The existing refuge, operating for almost two years, has reported "life-changing" outcomes for residents. Staff assist women facing challenges such as addiction and homelessness, which can prevent access to traditional services.
Activities like fitness, gardening, and cooking are offered to help residents rebuild confidence and discover new interests. The project emphasizes holistic wellbeing, including mental health, addiction recovery, and independent living skills.
Former resident Rachel, who experienced years of abuse, addiction, and homelessness, stated the refuge "saved her life." She has been clean for two years and has since rebuilt relationships with her family and moved into her own home.
Harbour has supported domestic abuse victims for over 50 years. The demand for this specialized complex needs service has led to the funding of a second refuge, aiming to provide similar life-saving support to more women.
