What we do

We believe that every woman and child experiencing domestic violence has different needs – there is no single package of services to meet those needs, no ‘one size fits all’.

Refuge offers a range of services which gives women and children access to professional support whatever their situation.  These services include:

National Domestic Violence Helpline

The Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline, run in partnership with Women’s Aid, is open 24 hours a day, every single day.  Our helpline workers are there to give emotional support and practical information.  They help women explore their options and escape abuse.

A network of refuges across the country

Our refuges provide emergency accommodation for women fleeing abuse.  But they are more than just a roof over a head.  They give women the time and space to make decisions about their futures.  Our specialist refuge staff are on hand to provide emotional and practical support.

Independent legal advocacy

Our Independent Domestic Violence Advocates provide expert guidance for women going through civil and criminal courts.  They help women to obtain non-molestation injunctions and occupation orders, and they help increase conviction rates.

Outreach services

Some women may choose not to go into a refuge or leave their home.  Our outreach workers meet with women at safe times in their own homes or at a discreet place in the community.  They help women to draw up safety plans, progress housing applications and also provide emotional support.

Psychological services

Our psychologists help women and children overcome the traumatic effects of abuse.  They run counselling sessions with mothers and children, helping them to work through feelings of fear, guilt and confusion.

Culturally specific services

Women and children from minority ethnic groups often find it difficult to access mainstream support services.  Refuge provides culturally specific refuges and outreach programmes for Eastern European, African, and Asian families.

Prevention and education

Refuge runs award-winning advertising campaigns to raise awareness of domestic violence.  Our campaigns also reach out to women, telling them where to get help and reminding them that they are not alone.

Policy

We lobby the government hard to ensure that domestic violence remains high on the political agenda.  We also encourage other agencies to develop best practice services to meet the needs of women and children experiencing domestic violence.