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Can I claim Housing Benefit while staying at the refuge?

Yes, you may be eligible to claim Housing Benefit to help cover the cost of accommodation at the refuge. Our support team can assist you in applying for Housing Benefit and navigating the process. We’ll work with you to ensure you have the necessary documentation and support to access this benefit.

 

What kind of support is available for me and my children?

Our refuge offers a range of support services, including emotional support, safety planning, and practical assistance with housing, benefits, and legal matters. For children, we provide a safe and nurturing environment with access to age-appropriate activities and support to help them settle in.

 

How long can I stay at the refuge?

The length of stay varies depending on individual circumstances. Our goal is to support you until you feel ready to move on to the next stage of your journey, whether that’s finding independent accommodation or accessing further support services.

 

Is the refuge safe and confidential?

Absolutely. Your safety and privacy are our top priorities. Our refuge operates with strict confidentiality policies, and we take every measure to ensure a secure environment for all residents.

 

Can I bring my pets?

We understand that pets are often part of the family. Unfortunately we are unable to accept pets at the moment, but please discuss this with our team during the referral process, as there are other solutions we can support you with.

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Am I eligible for refuge space?

Warrington Women’s Aid’s refuge is available to women escaping domestic abuse who need a safe and confidential place to stay. The service is exclusively for women, and they can be accommodated with children up to the age of 16, offering a secure, supportive environment for families in crisis.

If we have space available, we will offer you a conditional place based on the information you share with us during your referral. We encourage you to be as open and honest as you feel able, so we can make sure the support we offer is safe and appropriate for your circumstances. As we are not a 24/7 refuge, there may be times when we are unable to accept certain referrals due to complex needs or capacity limitations. If this happens, we will talk this through with you sensitively and explore alternative options to ensure you are not left without support.

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Am I eligible for community support?

If you’re experiencing domestic abuse but don’t need refuge accommodation, you are still very welcome to access our community support service. You simply need to be over 18 and willing to engage with our support. Even if you’re still in the relationship, we will work with you to create a personalised safety plan and find the safest possible way to support you. If you have children and are worried about managing childcare while engaging with us, please get in touch — we may be able to offer limited childcare support to help you attend sessions, depending on availability. You don’t have to face this alone; we’re here to support you in whatever way we safely can.

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Get in Touch

If you have any questions or would like to start the referral process, please reach out to us. We’re here to help you take the next step toward safety and stability. Call us at 01925 417138 or use our online enquiry form. You’re not alone, and we’re here to support you at your own pace.

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 Please click this link for information regarding dogs and being rehoused. https://www.dogstrustfreedom.org.uk/