Arriving to the refuge I was the turning point in my life. I came in feeling lost, overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. But from the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted with kindness and warmth. The staff and volunteers in the refuge made it clear that this was a place where I could heal, grow and rebuild my confidence to start rebuilding my life.

The refuge provided not only a safe place but also the tools and resources I needed to take control of my life again. I have received counselling, job research assistance and court help from the staff.  During my time in the refuge the staff were very supportive and informative about each step. The staff worked quickly to ensure that me and my children were comfortable and safe.

The safety planning was brilliant in 1 to1 sessions as it helped me understand and learn and put a plan in place how to keep safe in the future. The staff did a wonderful job assisting our needs. The staff were great to my children, while I was in my 1 to 1 session one of the staff stayed with my children in a children’s room, played and did activities with them.

I’m incredibly grateful for the time I spent in the refuge. It wasn’t just a place to stay, it was a place that helped me to rediscover hope and regain my strength. The experience in the refuge changed my life and I’ll always be thankful for the support I received during the time when I needed the most.