We opened the world’s first safe house for women and children in 1971.
It was in Chiswick, West London. Women and children escaping domestic abuse flocked to our doors because, for the first time, someone was saying it was wrong to beat your partner. Back then, domestic abuse was seen as a “private matter”, to be dealt with behind closed doors. Society turned a blind eye.
Since 1971, Refuge has led the campaign against domestic abuse. We’ve grown to become the country’s largest single provider of specialist domestic and gender-based violence services.
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What we do
Leaving an abusive relationship is a process. It can look different for everyone. That’s why we work individually and confidentially with each survivor to tailor a plan that meets her needs.
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Who we are
The passion with which we approach our work to support survivors of domestic abuse sets Refuge apart. It is with care and support — combined with expertise and excellence — that our staff works to help each woman and child restore safety and dignity in their lives.
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Our Strategy
We believe that domestic abuse and violence against women and girls will only end when we create gender equality. Here's how we're working towards that goal.
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Our impact
Our services save and change lives. The proof is in the numbers and stories.
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Work for us
We are often looking for kind, passionate, committed people with a wide range of skills to join our teams — from frontline work to operations, fundraising and development and HR.
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Contact information
Find the right contacts for your enquiries here.
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Equality, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion are central to Refuge's work and are reflected in our service provision, diverse workforce and in the way we work.
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Ambassadors
These passionate women and men lend a human face and voice to the cause of ending domestic violence — and we’re grateful for their support.
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Our Champions
You may recognise them from TV, movies and magazines, but for us they are essential voices in the fight against domestic abuse.
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"It’s so nice to have such a supportive team on my side when for ages the system has been so hard (almost impossible) to navigate, and I felt I would never get anywhere. I wish everyone had this level of support, I feel it has literally saved my life at times, so thank you."