Today is White Ribbon Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about domestic abuse and supporting efforts to end violence against women and girls.
In the UK, police receive a domestic abuse call every 30 seconds, yet less than 24% of domestic abuse crimes are reported. One in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes. Also, 40% of homeless women state domestic abuse as a contributory factor to their homelessness. All these figures underscore the importance of our support in helping survivors rebuild their lives.
Worcestershire has a network of safe houses across the county for those needing a secure place to escape to.
As a housing association, Rooftop plays a crucial role in providing safe accommodation in Wychavon and offers support services to tenants in these homes. This is open to women and/or men fleeing abuse with or without children.
Besides housing, we also assist with emotional support, understanding financial situations, claiming benefits, finding schools, registering with a doctor, meeting solicitors, navigating immigration and housing issues, reporting abuse and attending court.
Below is one of the cases our colleagues provided support:
X fled from physical, emotional and financial abuse with her children. With little more than the clothes on their backs, X found safety in a Rooftop safe house with all the necessary furnishings. Beyond accommodation, we helped her secure grants for essential items and coordinated her transition into a more secure long-term home with safety enhancements through the Sanctuary Scheme. Now, X and her children are safe, with the children settling into school while X is accessing ongoing support, including counselling from West Mercia Women’s Aid.
It’s time for all of us to stand together and get involved in creating a safer and more respectful world for all.
If you or someone you know need advice, please see contact details below or go to our website for more information.
- West Mercia Womens Aid:
- Domestic Abuse helpline - Tel: 0800 980 3331
- Male helpline - Tel: 0800 014 9082
- Worcestershire County Council - Sanctuary Target Hardening scheme: For domestic abuse survivors who want to be safe to remain in their home and who have ended the relationship with the perpetrator.
- GALOP (LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline) Tel: 0800 999 5428
