Refuge and Housing

We understand that experiencing domestic abuse can be scary and overwhelming. We aim to provide a safe space for all who are seeking help. Any information shared will remain private, but if it’s believed that someone is in danger, certain details may need to be shared with others to ensure safety. We will fully explain the process should this situation arise.

What is a refuge?

Refuge is a self-contained flat where women and children who want to escape domestic abuse can stay.

It is a place where women can have time and space, free from fear and pressure, to make decisions about their life.

Each refuge is self-contained which means you do not have to share with another family. Refuge is offered to single women and to women with children. We have refuges in various locations throughout Aberdeen.

All locations of our accommodation are confidential, and we aim to help you keep as safe as possible. If you feel that you need to leave your area for your own safety, we can also help you to access refuge accommodation in other areas of the UK.

Some of our refuges are accessible for wheelchair-users.

You can refer yourself to a refuge directly without having to contact someone else to do it for you, although some women are referred to us by agencies such as the police or social work.

Life in refuge

All refuges are furnished to a high standard and are fully equipped with bedding, kitchen utensils and a TV. You will also receive some basic food and toiletries when coming into refuge.

Once you are in a refuge, staff will be there to help you settle into the accommodation and start planning. Your decisions will always be respected, and the aim is always to help you find ways to feel safe.

The amount of support you receive will be based on your individual situation and needs. You will have a keyworker who will meet with you on a one-to-one basis to offer support and advice on various topics, including securing permanent accommodation; benefit entitlement; debt advice; parenting issues; sign posting for legal advice, and health and well-being. You will be supported to re-gain control over your life.

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, and we ask that you do not disclose the address of a refuge. An occupancy agreement is signed to ensure that your stay in refuge is comfortable and safe.

We have some refuges that can accommodate pets. If you wish to bring your pet with you, please let us know this before you move into refuge so that we can arrange to support you, your children (if you have any) and your pet.

The length of time you may be in refuge accommodation varies depending on the area you are looking to be re-housed in, the size of house you require and the availability of housing stock within each locality.

Workers are available during office hours to offer support and information.

Along with women, children and young people require support to recover from the impact of domestic abuse. Children in refuge will be offered support from our Children & Young Person’s Service.

How do I arrange refuge accommodation?

Before refuge is offered, the Women’s Service Manager or Support Practitioner will undertake an assessment with you.

Factors we consider during assessment include:

• are the areas we have available safe for you?
• does the perpetrator or his family live or frequent nearby?
• are there any other risk factors which may impact on your support?
• Do you have a support network close by?

If you would like to learn more about GWA’s refuge accommodation support you may wish to complete our online referral or you can contact us by telephone on 01224 593381