Resettlement & Aftercare

This is an optional service provided for women who have been resident in a BSWA refuge, and who are preparing to leave and start a new life. The Resettlement and Aftercare project provides support to the woman both in the refuge and after leaving.

‘Resettlement’ is about finding a new place to live that is secure, safe and comfortable, looking at housing options and availability, rent and tenancy rights. Women don’t have to still be in refuge – they can access Resettlement if you have moved into other temporary accommodation (e.g. a friend’s house).

‘Aftercare’ is the support available for a woman (and her children) when she has moved and is getting settled in to her new place. It is a holistic support package, which can continue up to six months on a tapering basis. Women don’t have to take up Aftercare straight after their move – they can access this service up to eight weeks after leaving the refuge.

This Project aims to:

• support women in accessing resources and enable them to maintain and sustain their accommodation in a safe, secure, comfortable home
• provide support on various matters including social welfare matters including housing and accommodation, welfare benefits, debt and money advice, employment and training, children’s welfare and provides practical support
• provide a woman-to-woman service and support package which meets the needs of women and children