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| Women's Refuge and Outreach Support Services | ||||||
FAQs about staying in the Refuge
Please talk to us however the following will help:
- Why don’t women leave abusive relationships?
- Why doesn’t she tell someone?
- What support is available after I leave Refuge?
Click on the links above to learn more.
Why don’t women leave abusive relationships?
Women stay in violent relationships for many reasons. These may include lack of financial independence, isolation from family and friends, shame or feeling responsible for the abuse or fear that she or her children will be harmed should she leave. In addition she may be scared of the future, unaware of how to seek help and may also still care about her partner and hope they will change.
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Once again there are many reasons. A woman may fear being judged or not believed. She may be fearful that the violence may escalate if others become aware and she may become increasingly concerned about her future. She may have feelings of feel guilt or shame and may fear that her children will be taken into care.
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The Refuge is open to any women, married or single, with or without children. The Refuge has an Equal opportunities policy however some women with drug, alcohol or mental health problems may be referred for specialist support.
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Refuge staff will assist mothers in supporting the needs of the children, including helping with liaison with local schools and other agencies, however primary care remains the responsibility of each parent.
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A woman with no personal income is usually eligible for Social Security benefits. Refuge staff will help women make the necessary enquiries and assist her to complete the necessary paperwork to enable her rent to be paid direct to Refuge. If a woman is employed, it is anticipated that she will be able to pay the nominal rent.
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What support is available after I leave Refuge?
GWR is open to ex-residents for on-going emotional and practical support. Ex-residents are free to call in to speak to staff or conversely arrangements can be made through our outreach programme to meet in the community at a mutually convenient location.
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This varies from days to months, depending on the individual woman’s circumstances. Some women return to their partners whilst others take legal action to seek a divorce and/or evict their partner from the family home. Others may relocate. Whatever their choice, GWR aims to empower them to make an informed decision and refer them to other agencies where appropriate.
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The address of the Refuge is confidential. Cameras and security systems are in place and the Refuge maintains a close relationship with the local Police.
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The GSCPA is sympathetic to women fleeing domestic abuse and understands the additional emotional distress incurred at the thought of leaving behind treasured pets. Women with such additional concerns can contact the GSPCA for further assistance in respect of temporary accommodation for their pets.
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| Guernsey Refuge Ltd | Legal | |||