Posted on 27 November 2024
We’re working with victims of domestic abuse to help them rebuild their lives
To recognise White Ribbon Day and the following 16 Days of Action, we’re raising awareness of domestic abuse and highlighting the work we do to support victims and survivors.
Nancy’s* story
Nancy was escaping domestic abuse. Along with three out of her four children, she had moved from London to one of our refuges in Kent.
On arriving at the refuge, Nancy was given financial and benefits advice. Our Empty Homes and Lettings team also referred her to Hyde Foundation for additional support.
After a few months, Nancy was offered a Hyde home via our Priority Move process, Jigsaw.
Our Priority Move list is an internal transfer list, where priority can be given to customers experiencing domestic abuse. Once accepted as a priority move, our customer is awarded the highest banding (Band A) and is able to bid on a new home via Jigsaw (our open waiting list platform).
However, there were setbacks that caused delays, and Nancy’s move in date went from February to June. We continued to support Nancy, and granted exemption to stay at the refuge longer than the usual six months. She finally moved in with her three children in June this year. The final few weeks in the refuge had been quite tough – especially as the children hadn’t had much space or independence.
A new start
Nancy is now living in a lovely Hyde home, in a new area. Our Lettings Advisor, Michelle, provided further support by applying for funding from our Helping Hand Fund. Thanks to Helping Hand, Nancy received a grant for white goods for her new home, and beds and mattresses. The home has the use of a garden, so a kitten joined the household when they moved in.
Nancy is really happy in her new home and said that all her children were smiling again – particularly her daughter who loves playing in the garden with the kitten. The children are all happy in their schools (the younger children went to a new school) and found the area where they are living to be very friendly.
Nancy is now hoping to get back into employment once her children are completely settled.
*We've changed Nancy’s name
Find support and resources.
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.