Refuge

Birmingham Domestic Abuse Refugeline: FREEPHONE 0800 111 4223

(please note: this service is run externally and will provide access to refuges including those run by BSWA)

Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid provides safe refuge accommodation that is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We provide services that are available to all women, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity or sexuality. We have some accommodation that is adapted to better meet the needs of women and children with disabilities.

We are also taking referrals for the other refuges in the city of Birmingham, via the Single Referral Route. If you decide you no longer feel safe to remain in your home we can aim to find you space for you in a refuge in Birmingham or Solihull. We can also find you refuge space elsewhere in the country if you choose.

If you do not want to leave your home, we can talk to you about appropriate services that you can access - just call the freephone number above.

If, for whatever reason, we are unable to meet your needs, we will assist you in finding alternative support and/or accommodation.

What support will I get?

Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid workers will listen to you, give you time and space and support you and your decision. We have workers who can offer language support.

Within our refuges we can support you with:

• Legal issues
• Benefits and other money matters
• Housing problems and resettlement
• Health problems - physical or emotional
• Children’s issues
• Talking to Social Care and Health, police and other organisations
• Accessing Aftercare once you have moved out of refuge
• Accessing language support if needed

For more information, see Commonly Asked Questions.

What about my children?

Children are very welcome at Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid refuges. We have specialist children’s workers who bring a child friendly approach into refuge and who can work with you and your children on a number of issues.

Childrens workers give children time and space to talk as well as provide opportunities to meet other children and a chance to have fun.

Children’s Workers run play sessions for children as well as shared play sessions which are attended by mums and their children. They can also run sessions with individual families to look at communication and relationship building between you and your children.

Children’s Workers will work with you to find local school places for your children and will build links with other organisations who have a role in children’s lives.

Children’s Workers play an important role in making sure that your children’s stay in refuge is as happy and fun as possible.

Call 0800 0732 606/ 0121 685 8519 (minicom).