
“The refuge saved my life” – Rotherham Council’s vital refuge service which helps people fleeing domestic violence and their families is set to continue for a further four years.
The Council’s Cabinet is asked to approve the recommissioning of the Domestic Abuse Refuge Service when the current contract ends in September, when it meets on Monday 20 January.
The service, currently provided by the charity Hopian (formerly Rotherham Rise), provides temporary accommodation for victims and survivors of domestic abuse and their families, and supports them to live safely and independently.
The current contract consists of 18 units of supported safe accommodation in Rotherham, including a refuge for women and children. A total of 37 people accessed and left the service during 2023/24, and between 16 and 29 children per quarter were also supported.
A key achievement of the service is its ability to help people secure stable housing. In 2023/2024, 69 per cent of people who left the service were able to obtain their own settled accommodation, with 51 per cent of these individuals finding housing within Rotherham.
The service has also made significant strides in reducing the risk for those it supports. In 2023/2024, 60 per cent of people experienced a reduction in risk upon leaving the service.
Additionally, the service has consistently met the needs of people who accessed it, with 100 per cent of identified needs being addressed in areas such as economic wellbeing, life skills, reduced isolation, and increased confidence (in 2023/2024).
Feedback from those who have benefited from the service highlight the huge difference it has made in their lives. One person said: “The refuge saved my life.”
The current contract is due to expire on 30 September 2025 and recommissioning the service for four years, with the option to extend for a further two years, will ensure continuous service provision and stability for those who are currently accessing the service.
The Council plans to offer the current purpose-built refuge accommodation as an option to be utilised again during the new contact.
Councillor Saghir Alam, Cabinet Member for Finance and Safe and Clean Communities said: “Everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy and secure. As a Council we want to empower everyone to lead fulfilling lives whilst also keeping them safe from harm.
“Providing high-quality support and safe accommodation for victims and survivors of domestic abuse forms part of this, which is why it’s pleasing to hear of the positive outcomes of this service.”
For more information about domestic abuse support visit Domestic abuse – Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council.