WHAT DOES THE REFUGE OFFER ?
The Refuge is a confidential service which offers support, advice and safe accommodation to victims of domestic violence 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This abuse does not have to be physical or between husband and wife we have supported many women who have suffered abuse from their children or same sex partners. Many women contact us by phone and we offer the opportunity to talk in confidence about what is happening, either over the phone or arranging a time to come for a chat. You do not have to stay with us to receive our support.
Free counselling Sessions
The Refuge team includes a qualified counsellor, we offer a free counselling service for victims of domestic abuse. Appointments can be arranged at a time convenient for the client, this can include evenings and weekends. Contact us to find out more about this service.
At the Refuge as well as having a trained counsellor, there is also a Portuguese speaking support worker. Our Outreach team offer support in the community either by going to other agencies with women or meeting women outside the Refuge, who for whatever reason do not wish to come to the house.
This support is offered to any woman who needs our services, ongoing support is also available to anyone who has stayed at the Refuge at any time and then moved out.
All the support workers are experienced, friendly, positive people who are motivated and dedicated to providing the best support possible.
What to expect
The Refuge has 7 bedrooms, most with en suite facilities, i. e. own shower & toilet. Other shared facilities include two large lounges, a laundry room, large kitchen with allocated cupboard space and children’s play areas.
Whilst staying at the Refuge women can continue with their own routine as much as possible and will be expected to shop, cook and clean up after themselves as they would in their own home. The Refuge cannot offer babysitting and the children will be solely their responsibility.
Other Agencies
The Refuge team have made links with other agencies during the process of our work. Many of the women who stay require help from other agencies such as Housing, Social Security, Children's Service, Police, Legal Aid or Doctors. The Support Workers at the Refuge can help with this and our Outreach team can go with women if they need support. We are here to help & support in any way we can.
Feeling Low?
Dealing with this crisis in life can be very distressing . Things can easily get on top of people even though they trying to cope. THIS IS NORMAL. The support workers are skilled listeners and specialists in the area of domestic violence. You are not alone and we are available 24 hours a day so please do not suffer in silence.
How long can a woman stay?
Everyone's situation is different, some stay for a few nights and others stay longer anything up to two months. Should you feel in any way concerned please talk to a support worker.
What about rent?
Being a charitable organisation we charge a small amount of rent which goes towards maintaining our service. If this causes any concern a support worker will always be available to talk this through with.
Drugs & Alcohol
The Refuge is a dry house. This is for the safety and well being of all the women and children staying in the Refuge. Sometimes women use alcohol or drugs as a way of escaping their problems. If you feel you need some help there is a specialist worker who can visit the Refuge. Please talk to us if are concerned or ring Alcohol & Drug Service on 618110.
After Care
Once you have left the Refuge you can still receive our support. You can phone or come in for on-going support i. e. once a week for a chat or counselling. One of our Outreach team can meet with you at a different location. This can be arranged by phoning 505061 or by email: outreach@jerseywomensrefuge.org