VULNERABLE women will be given a new lease of life with the launch of a housing service for those fleeing abuse.
The Navigator Scheme, recently launched in six local authorities across the North-East, will provide accommodation to women who cannot live in traditional refuges.
There are a many reasons why some escaping domestic abuse and violence may not thrive in a communal refuge, according to charity My Sister’s Place.
Some women may not be comfortable living in such an environment for cultural reasons, while others may have struggled to find stable accommodation due to mental health issues, criminal records or issues with substance misuse.
The charity is hoping the acquisition of new properties will help those who are unable to live in traditional refuges the opportunity to get back on their feet again.
Based in Middlesbrough, My Sister’s Place were recently given the keys to one property in the town and are in the process of acquiring another, with the view of expanding the service if needed.
As part of the project, other organisations in Redcar, Hartlepool, Stockton, Darlington and Durham are working with local authorities to help women.
Middlesbrough’s Halo Project, which helps victims of honour based violence and forced marriages, are working to manage housing specifically for women from black, minority and ethnic backgrounds.
