Posted on 28 November 2023
Spotlight on our work to keep victims and survivors of domestic abuse safe.
To mark the start of our 16 Days of Action, where we’re coming together to say ‘No’ to domestic abuse, we’re highlighting two of our schemes that support victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Domestic Abuse Fund
Our Domestic Abuse Fund is a flexible fund, designed to support customers who are experiencing domestic abuse, or are dealing with the ongoing effects of it. The fund is managed by Hyde Foundation and our frontline teams can apply for up to £1,000 per household (this limit can be increased in certain cases). Grants can be used to pay for:
- Keeping our customer safe from their abuser – this can include help with changing phone numbers, accessing restraining orders and covering other similar costs
- Accessing help and support services
- Supporting our customer to leave their home – this could include hiring a removals firm, providing emergency accommodation and providing clothing for those who have fled with no possessions
- Food and personal hygiene items.
Nimi Shephard-Patel, Hyde’s Fundraising Manager said: “The flexibility of this grant allows us to respond swiftly to the needs of customers who are suffering because of domestic abuse. Since 1 April 2023, we’ve awarded £21,826 of domestic abuse grants and we’re really happy to continue this support through donations to the fund. The funding will help improve the lives of survivors and their families, helping to provide brighter, safer futures.”
Safe Partnership Scheme
An important tool we have available to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse is our Safe Partnership Scheme, which is funded by Hyde Foundation. The scheme allows us to make referrals for security/sanctuary works, where Safe Partnership attends our customer’s home and carries out a home security check. They then fit and install additional security measures if necessary.
The scheme provides practical support and reassurance to our customers by improving security to their home at a time when they feel vulnerable and unsafe.
Our Tenancy Officer, Alli, said that the scheme has made a real difference. She explained:
“I’ve been using the scheme for my customers who are at risk of domestic abuse, but want to remain living in their home, while they explore their other housing options. Through our Safe Partnership Scheme, customers receive home security checks by a surveyor and enhanced security features.”
Here are some of Alli’s recent referrals:
Anna*, South London
Anna recently separated from her abusive ex-partner. There is an ongoing police investigation, but Anna’s ex-partner continues to turn up at her address, breaching his bail conditions. Anna is currently applying for a non-molestation order, but she asked if there were any further security measures that could be put in place as she doesn’t want to leave her home. Alli offered a home security check, and Safe Partnership attended Anna’s home and fitted window and door alarms. Anna said to Alli:
“Thank you so much for arranging this. I really appreciate your help and support. I love my home and do not want to feel forced out of it, but at least having my doors and windows checked will give me some piece of mind.”
Dee*, East Sussex
Dee recently separated from her abusive ex-partner. She told Alli that he continues to stalk and harass her, and the police are monitoring the situation.
He turns up at her address unannounced and tries to get into her home. Alli suggested that Dee pursued a non-molestation order against him and talked her through the process. As an additional measure, and because Dee wants to say in her home as she doesn’t want to move from the area, Alli offered a home security check. Safe Partnership changed the locks and fitted a fire-proof letterbox.
Zara*, Brighton
Zara has experienced abuse from her ex-partner. She told Alli that her young son’s birthday was approaching and she feared her ex-partner would return to her home and try and get in to see his son. Zara was fearful of what he could do if he was able to get into the flat.
Zara told Alli she has great neighbours and doesn’t want to move. So, Alli discussed the Safe Partnership scheme with her and offered a home security check. Safe Partnership then fitted window alarms and recommended a new front door.
Zara was so grateful and said this was such a relief for her: “Wow Alli! Thank you so much. I feel safer knowing you have been helping me.”
Gina*, East Sussex
Gina has been raped by her ex-partner, who threatens her with knives and other weapons. He is obsessive and threatening and Alli has been working with Gina’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to make a Priority Move application and to get a non-molestation order.
Alli made a referral to Safe Partnership, who fitted new window and door alarms, as well as a door brace. Working with our Property Manager, we also arranged for the front communal door locks to be changed. And, in conjunction with the police, we’re also installing security lights and CCTV.
Alli received this thanks and praise from Andrea’s IDVA, after the home security check was completed:
“Thank you so for all the work you put into this case and the security you have arranged both in Gina’s flat and her block. Your support has been outstanding.”
For information and resources on domestic abuse visit our website.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse you can access help and support from the National Domestic Violence Helpline, Women’s Aid and Refuge on 0808 2000 247.
If you or others are in immediate danger, phone the police on 999.
*Customers’ names have been changed to protect their identify.