The Refuge is a confidential service which offers support, advice and safe accommodation to victims of domestic violence 24hrs a day. 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
With a valued member of the Refuge team being a qualified counsellor, we are delighted to be able to offer a free counselling service for victims of domestic abuse. Appointments are at the Refuge and can be arranged at times to meet the client’s needs. Contact us to find out more about this service.
At the Refuge we have a trained counsellor, as well as a Portuguese speaker. Our Outreach staff 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 in.
This support is offered to any woman who needs our services, as well as anyone who has stayed at the Refuge and now left.
Staff are experienced, friendly, positive people who are well 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.
Women who move into the Refuge will be required to fill in an admission form with a member of staff. This is normal procedure for health & safety reasons but it will also give them an opportunity to talk about any problems or concerns they have about staying at the Refuge or future plans.
Other Agencies
The Refuge staff 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 staff at the Refuge can help with this and our Outreach staff 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 staff are skilled listeners and specialise in the area of domestic violence. You are not alone and we are available 24hrs 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 problems please do not hesitate to speak to a support worker.
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 specialised 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. Our Outreach staff can meet with you at a different location. This can be arranged by phoning 505061 or by emailing outreach@jerseywomensrefuge.org