HARTLEPOOL WOMEN’S REFUGE

offers accommodation, advice and outreach support
for women and children suffering any form of
violence within the home

An Umbrella Project of North Tees Women’s Aid

01429 277508 

WHAT IS A REFUGE? 

The Refuge offers support with: 

advice 

benefits 
solicitors
courts
doctors
children 
re-housing

You do not have to live in the Refuge 
to get help, support or advice 

      WHAT IS A REFUGE?

      A house offering temporary accommodation, where women and children can live and be
     safe from abuse. The Refuge is also a place where women can seek advice and support.

     HOW CAN I GET THERE?

    You can contact the Refuge by ringing the number on the top of this page, or through the 
    Samaritans, Social Services or the Police. 

In an emergency do not hesitate to call 999

 

WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

Ill-treatment from a husband/partner or ex-husband/ ex-­partner which could be violent 
behaviour, such as rape —unwanted sexual contact leading to intercourse or sexual 
assault. Being punched, kicked or shoved, mental abuse, which could be constant 
bullying/nagging, telling a woman she is stupid, ugly, useless or humiliating her. 
Living with the threat of violence. Restricting a woman’s rights to money, freedom, 
speech or the right to protect her children. 

WHAT DO I DO FOR MONEY?

Once you have left home you are a single woman and can claim Income Support for 
yourself and any children you have living with you. This is your right. 

WHAT ABOUT MY HOUSING?

You can a) return to your home with an injunction, or

b) be re-housed elsewhere.

 

I NEED TO GET OUT OF THE AREA!

Refuges are linked throughout the country and we can arrange for you to move into 
another area or region. 

HOW LONG CAN I STAY AT THE REFUGE?

       As long as you need. This can be from a few days to several months. Some women
       come just for a break from the violence — time to think and breathing space. Some
       women choose to return to the partner they were living with and try again.

If you decide to go back to your partner and the violence continues,
you can return to the Refuge

     WHAT ABOUT MY CHILDREN?

      We have a playroom with trained staff who offer support and advice on all childcare
      issues. In the playroom we have lots of fun activities, trips out and school holiday 
      play schemes, which are lots of fun

Women's personal comments having used the Refuge Service

Security Friendship
Caring Refuge
Welcoming Protection
Understanding Self-confidence
End of worry Independence
Breathing space Good atmosphere
Good nights sleep Gained self-esteem

Registered Charity No. 1086897 Incorporating No. 4141850