Children's Services
At any one time, children occupy up to 70% of refuge space. The effects of domestic violence on children manifest themselves in a variety of ways but they are often far reaching. Children's individual developmental and emotional needs are best met by the specialist Children's Workers who build up a relationship with the mothers to ensure cohesion and consistency in their support.
We have dedicated play rooms in each house. Every day the Childrens' workers run play sessions. In addition to this they assist in the following ways:
promoting the empowerment of children and their mothers in making decisions, including supporting the mother in her relationship with her children
ensure that significant cultural and religious events are appropriately observed
arrange outings and activities during the holidays
organise childrens parties
- work with children and their mother when moving on from the refuge, providing resettlement support for the children
When families are leaving the refuge we take the opportunity to ask them about their stay. This helps us to understand which of our services they found most useful and learn from their feedback. The children also get the opportunity to tell us what they think about our service. Below are just some of their comments:
Did you enjoy your stay at the refuge?
"Yes because of the nice people that was there and the trips we went on and the fun we had"
"Yes, because whenever I was upset or angry the children's workers were here to help"
Living at the refuge has helped me to?
"Open up about things"
"Stopped me getting worried about living at my dads house"
"To be happy"
"Realise that you would make more friends if you try. Realise that no matter what has happened before you came here, fun always comes out of it"