A secret ‘safe space’ for women and men fleeing violent or abusive partners has been jointly launched by Stevenage and Welwyn Hatfield Councils…
It is essentially a “bolt-hole” for people to stay for a few days in an emergency. They can then assess their life and make difficult decisions about their future.
Stevenage Borough Council and Stevenage Against Domestic Abuse are also launching weekly drop-in sessions in July, so people who have suffered domestic abuse can speak to others who have been in the same situation.
The idea came from the Stevenage forum for former victims of abuse.
Sharon Taylor, Labour Leader of Stevenage Borough Council and Chair of SADA, told BOB fm: “Protecting men and women who have suffered abuse in their own homes is a real priority and we can now offer people a safe place so they have time to think about what they can do if they find themselves in this very difficult situation.
The drop-in sessions are another important way we can give people who have been abused have somewhere to go for advice and support, while they make important decisions about their life and future safety”.
Roger Trigg, Executive Member for Community Safety at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, added: “Securing this funding is excellent news and shows that we’re all united in our commitment to support survivors of domestic abuse.
It will help men, women, and their families, to rebuild their lives – and support the vital work of the Welwyn Hatfield Women’s Refuge.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, at any time, so it’s important that the right provisions are in place to help those that need it”.
http://www.bobfm.co.uk/news/local-news/secret-safe-space-launched-for-victims-of-domestic-abuse-in-stevenage-and-welwyn-hatfield/