Becoming a victim of crime can occasionally leave you and your family homeless, especially if the incident has taken place within a domestic setting. The safety of you and your children is the most important priority, particularly if you are living within a violent situation. If you are worried for your safety at home, it is vital you seek advice. There are numerous organisations whose aim is to safeguard and protect people, with many focusing on victims of domestic abuse.
What is a refuge?
A refuge is a type of safe house which provides temporary accommodation for victims of domestic abuse, mostly women and their children. Different refuges cater for different needs; for instance, some are specifically for women from a particular ethnic background. The duration of a stay in a refuge depends on the circumstances of the individual – it could be days or several months. If a more permanent residence is required, the refuge can assist the process and you are entitled to stay there until a permanent solution is found.
How do I access refuge accommodation?
Commissioned Provider
The Police and Crime Commissioner funds organisations that provide support services for victims and witnesses in Derbyshire. These are free of charge and are available to anyone who lives in Derbyshire. For domestic abuse refuges, these support services are provided by Action Hosuing.
Action Housing
Action Housing is funded by the Commissioner to provide helpline services to anyone experiencing domestic abuse in the county. Through Action Housing you can access a whole range of support services provided by a number of different local organisations. These organisations offer a personalised support service, which can help with safety plans, the court process, refuges, counselling, and independent domestic violence advisors. For more information please see the contact details below.
Refuge
Refuge offers a range of services including refuge, outreach and resettlement support to women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, stalking, honour-based violence, trafficking, forced marriage and Female Genital Mutilation.
www.refuge.org.uk
0808 2000 247
The Elm Foundation
The Elm Foundation offers a safe, non-judgmental place for people who need it the most. Their services are available to anyone that has been affected by Domestic Abuse, offering a range of services to help and support men, women and children.
www.theelmfoundation.org.uk
08000 198 668
The following organisations can also provide help and support:
Nottingham Community Housing Association
This organisation delivers refuge-based services as well as floating support for both male and female survivors of domestic abuse, as well as homelessness services for those over 25 across the County, and a learning disability service.
Trident Reach
Trident Reach offers support and care in relation to housing for a wide range of individuals.