Boston Women's Aid

WHAT IS A WOMEN’S REFUGE?

TRACEY - wanted to protect her children from abuse
CELIA - was taunted and persecuted about her past
JANET – was kicked and punched in the stomach during pregnancy
DENISE – was continually criticised and put down by her husband
KATHLEEN – was bullied and intimidated by her son
MAJORIE – was forced to have sex
MARIE – was bitten and burnt with cigarettes

These women have been in a Refuge

What is a refuge ?

A refuge is a safe house for women who are unable to stay safely in their homes because they are being abused (whether physically, sexually or emotionally) or are at risk of abuse. There are now over 200 refuges in England. We try to offer each family their own bedroom, but sometimes it is necessary to share.

Who can go ?

Any women who needs to, married, single, lesbian, black or white, old or young with or without children, at any time.

How do I get there ?

You can contact Boston Refuge,
through the Police at any time,
through the Social Services EDT after 5pm.

How long can I stay ?

As long as you need -anything from a few days to several months

What about the children ?

Your children need not miss any schooling as children can attend local schools.

What do I do for money ?

Once you have left home you can claim income support for yourself and any children you have with you. The local DWP (JobCentreplus) office is very supportive and will try to make sure you have enough money to live on within 24 hours of your arrival at the refuge.

What advice is available ?

Boston Women’s Aid can help women claim benefits and can give help and information on legal and housing options. For example, you may decide to get an injunction, begin divorce proceedings or apply for the custody of your children. We can put you in touch with a sympathetic solicitor. You could return home with an injunction (a court order to protect you) or you could get rehoused in Boston by the Council.

But all I want is a break !

Many women come to the refuge because they need breathing space and time to think. Some women decide to return home to try again.

Can I go back to the refuge after I have left it ?

Yes, you can return to live if you need refuge again. You can contact us for advice and support from our Outreach Team on 01522 510066.

What about safety – I’m afraid he will find me.

We can put you in touch with other refuges as near or as far away as you want. Refuge addresses are kept as confidential as possible to ensure the safety of the women and children using them.

I don’t want to go into a refuge. I just want to talk to somebody.

We offer support to women who don’t want to come into the refuge but do Want to talk. We can do this by phone or at any suitable safe place.

"No-one deserves to be abused.”