This strategy serves a dual purpose: it acts as a shield for those in immediate danger, while building the infrastructure to dismantle domestic abuse at its roots - with the survivor voice and knowledge woven throughout.
For over 50 years, Refuge has been there for women and children when they needed safety most. From the first refuge which opened in Chiswick in 1971, to our work today supporting thousands of survivors each year, our purpose has remained the same: to stand with survivors and help them find safety, stability and strength.
Our new three-year strategy is about strengthening Refuge so we can continue to do that work safely, consistently and for the long term.
Domestic abuse remains one of the most widespread and dangerous harms in our society. Survivors are facing increasingly complex risks, while specialist services continue to operate in a challenging funding and policy environment. This strategy recognises that reality honestly and sets out how we will respond.
No single organisation can meet this challenge alone. Refuge plays our role within a wider system of support for survivors, including specialist and by-and-for organisations who provide vital, expert services. This strategy strengthens our ability to play that role well, while working in deeper partnership to help make the whole system stronger.
Between 2026 and 2028, we will focus on:
- Delivering safer, more consistent, high-quality support for survivors wherever they live
- Strengthening our people, culture, systems and leadership so staff can do this vital work sustainably
- Building greater financial resilience and independence
- Using evidence and survivor insight to improve practice and influence systems
- Laying credible foundations for long-term prevention and change
This is a deliberate period of organisational strengthening so that we can make sure Refuge is strong enough to meet today’s risks and tomorrow’s challenges.
Survivors have been clear with us: safety matters most. This strategy exists to protect that safety now, and to build a Refuge survivors can rely on for as long as they need us.
