Sanctuary rooms for high risk domestic abuse victims

High risk victims of domestic abuse are now able to find sanctuary in their own homes thanks to a new scheme funded by the Safer Caerphilly Community Safety Partnership.

The Sanctuary Project provides additional security measures to the homes of high risk victims of domestic abuse living in the Caerphilly county borough area. The project aims to make it possible for victims to remain safely in their homes, feeling safe and secure in familiar surroundings.

The main feature of the project is the creation of a Sanctuary Room, which consists of a safe room that complies with fire regulations and is tailored to accommodate the needs and circumstances of each individual.

Depending on the needs of the victim, other additional security measures can also be provided to the home, including a 'Good Neighbour' alarm which is activated by the domestic abuse victim and alerts a neighbour that they need to call the police.

Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Lyn Ackerman said, "Domestic abuse, in every form is an appalling crime and one which we in Caerphilly county borough are continually striving to combat.

It is estimated nationally that at some point in their lives one in four women and one in six men will experience some form of domestic abuse, therefore I commend projects such as this one for providing help, support and safety to those who do find themselves in such a situation.

The Sanctuary Project is an important step forward for tackling domestic abuse in the Caerphilly county borough as it helps to empower victims, and allows them to remain safely in their homes with additional security, rather than having to move away from their family, friends and other support networks."

One person that has benefitted from the Sanctuary Project in the Caerphilly county borough said, "Thank you ever so much for all your help. Thank you especially for the alarm that was fitted to my home, I really wasn't expecting it. I have been so scared in the past and I'm really glad I have been able to benefit from the Sanctuary Project. I cannot thank you enough."

The Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre (MAC) is the Caerphilly county borough's one-stop-shop for victims of domestic abuse and their families. It aims to significantly reduce the number of agencies that victims of domestic abuse need to approach in order to get the help and support that they need.

To find out more, or if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please contact the Safer Caerphilly Multi Agency Centre on (01443) 819 317 during office hours, or the 24 hour All Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 10 800. All calls are completely confidential.