Places of Safety

Why should I move? This is a question which is often asked by victims of domestic violence. If you feel that you are at risk of violence then the answer is to prevent further harm occurring to you. If you move to a location unknown to the offender then you will be safe.

In relation to housing there are four main options. All of these have advantages and disadvantages.

Local Authority Housing:

Under the Housing Act, housing departments of district councils have a statutory responsibility to put a roof over the head of someone who is fleeing domestic violence. This service is open to everyone and not just those who have previously lived in council property.

You can attend any district council housing office and present yourself as homeless due to fleeing domestic violence.

There is no expectation that you have to have any supporting evidence when claiming homelessness due to domestic violence. In reality it is much easier for the homeless section to accept you as unintentionally homeless if they do have some evidence. This can come in the form of support from someone like your health visitor, police or your doctor.

Refuges:

A refuge is a safe house for women and children escaping from domestic abuse. You can stay there, with or without children, until you have decided what you want to do next. Sometimes women will stay for just a few days to give themselves a break, getting help and advice, and sometimes they use it as a stepping stone to leaving permanently.

When you arrive at the refuge you will be given a Key Worker who will lead you through the obstacles you will have to cope with. They will help and support you all the way. Refuge addresses are kept secret. Refuges are situated locally and nationally.

Frequently asked questions:

How do I get there? I don’t have any money? What about schooling for my children? What about my pets?

Specially trained refuge staff deal with these types of issues everyday. They will be able to advise you on what help you are entitled to, and will talk to you to find the best solution for your circumstances. They may liase with other agencies on your behalf. Whatever your situation is they will be there to give you the help and support you need.

You can’t take a pet into a refuge but we do have a local service that will foster your animal for you whilst you are staying in refuge accommodation.

Womens Aid Aylesbury;

Womens Aid South Bucks;


Womens Aid High Wycombe;

National helpline (24 hrs): 0808 2000 247

Friends and Family:

A number of people feel that they would rather stay with their friends or family in these types of situation. Friends and family can provide additional friendly support in times of trouble. If you are frightened that your partner will visit your friends or familys address you can get advice from a solicitor about keeping him away by getting an injunction.

It's still good to get some proper advice from a domestic violence specialist and there may also be a domestic violence outreach worker covering your area. If there is do outreach worker in your area you can get help from Victim Support.

Remember whatever you do, you need to make yourself as safe as possible.

Staying at Home:

In certain circumstances it may be appropriate for a Civil Court to consider ordering a violent partner to leave the family home. This is called an occupation order. You can find out more information from a local solicitor or from Rights of Women.

If you choose to stay, you may also be able to make your home safer by being referred to the sanctuary scheme. Contact your community safety department at your local council