| Safety in a Refuge
The most important aspect of a refuge is that it is a Safe Place. This is why we have rules about safety and sometimes these can be difficult for women to get used to. Mostly, we ask women to use their common sense. Here are some examples of LWA's safety rules: We cannot take women and children from the borough of Lambeth or close by from neighbouring boroughs, as they may be spotted and followed. Always check that you are not being followed. Do not go to places where the perpetrator, his friends or relatives might be. This usually means that your children will have to change schools - it will be the first place that he will look. You are only allowed one visitor and they have to be female. They are not allowed to bring any children with them. You are responsible for making sure that your visitor also follows the safety precautions. Do not meet with the perpetrator, his friends or relatives. You may trust them but it is easier for him to manipulate them when you are not around. No men (over 14 years old) are allowed into the refuge or any contact by payphone. You must tell a member of staff if you or your children are going to be away overnight. If you stay out excessively your space will be given to someone else. A breach of the safety rules may mean that you could be evicted and taken to the Homeless Persons Unit to be allocated temporary accommodation. This is because if you have breached safety rules other refuges will be unwilling to accommodate you. These conditions may seem harsh, but they are strict to protect you, your children, other residents and staff. Refuge life isn't for everyone and some people
find the rules too restricting, but there other options available. If
you are suffering from domestic violence, your Local Authority has a duty
to provide you with temporary accommodation. In London this is usually
Bed & Breakfast accommodation, which sometimes also has strict rules,
although each is different. If you are unsure about going to live in a
refuge, contact Refuge Crisis Line for information about your local Outreach
Service, which can advise you of your options. |