24 Hour Domestic Violence Help-line

A major new drive to help prevent victims of domestic violence from feeling that they have no other choice but to leave their homes and become homeless will get under way in Rushcliffe, Gedling and Broxtowe Borough Councils in the New Year when Sanctuary Schemes are launched. 

The Government announced this week that they will be putting £74 million into providing Sanctuary Schemes across the country via local councils.

The Sanctuary Scheme gives people who wish to remain in their homes enhanced security, along with access to a support worker.  The person committing domestic violence should no longer be living at the address.  These security measures can include better locks and bolts, security lights, reinforced doorframes, up to creating a ‘safe room’ within the home with equipment such as CCTV and special bars on doors.

The scheme will increase the choices available to vulnerable people who have experienced violence and abuse in their relationship and prevent families being uprooted. According to the Police, for many adults and children living in Rushcliffe, Christmas and New Year will mean an increase in the abuse that has become part of their everyday lives.

Wendy Cloughley, domestic violence coordinator at the Borough Council said: “Nationally, Domestic violence is a factor in 1 in 8 of all new cases of homelessness - accounting for around 13,000 homeless households a year."