I found the section on responding appropriately to a patient disclosing domestic abuse very helpful. The training regarding perpetrators was interesting as we often think of the victim only.
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Fortalice provides frontline services including a refuge with 22 flats, training and group work for victims who are, or have been affected by domestic abuse and violence.
Our services support women, men, families, children and young people in Bolton and the surrounding areas. Survivors are invited to engage with group work or individual sessions to address the abuse they have lived with. We work to promote and ensure a future free from abuse and educating young people is a key part of our service.
Since the organisation was established in 1977 we have provided support, education and advice to thousands of families. Staff have a wealth of specialist skills, expertise and knowledge in this area.
The Board
The Fortalice Board is made up of a group of local volunteers who each bring expertise and experience including safety, safeguarding, employment, law, social care, housing and marketing.
The quarterly Board meetings cover areas overseeing finance, strategy, employment, buildings and future plans among others. Board members liaise with the Chief Executive and Finance Director to help ensure the smooth running of the Refuge, Outreach Support Centre and all services.
“There is more to life than being abused and controlled…”
To find out more about how you can support Fortalice, contact us
What people have to say about Fortalice…
All of the training was helpful and very interesting. I feel I now have more knowledge and a better understanding of domestic abuse and the IRIS service.
Training was very well delivered, very informative and clear. All of it was helpful including discussing the benefit of asking probing questions and different ways of asking the question. I thought the case study of the Domestic Homicide Review was thought provoking and real cases bring the topic to life. I thought the training was excellent. Thank you to all of you at IRIS for providing such a valuable service to people in Bolton.
My IRIS advocate has helped me really get back on my feet and shown such love and empathy that gave me encouragement to get back out there and make a life for myself.
My IRIS support worker has been great. She is helpful, understanding and a great listener. She’s also very knowledgeable about domestic abuse and has helped me so much.
My Advocate Educator has been a fantastic support and kept me strong when having to face court against my ex-husband. She has given me valuable advice and helped me through the court process.
When you suffer domestic abuse as a man in a relationship it is just laughed off by pretty much everyone and it makes you feel utterly hopeless and alone. Thankfully, with your help I’ve been able to find a way to deal with my partner’s erratic behaviour and I can see some light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you
Fortalice is a brilliant place to work. The work environment is positive and supportive of its staff and there are always opportunities to complete further training in domestic abuse awareness to enhance understanding and knowledge. I feel empowered in my role at Fortalice and I get to work alongside inspirational professionals that encourage my personal development.
Working for Fortalice has helped me to grow, both personally and professionally. I’ve actually worked for Fortalice twice! It’s the only place I’ve ever wanted to return to after leaving!
I feel as a team we support each other and are able to rely on one another for help, guidance and a friendly ear when days can be challenging. We are there to empower each other so that we are able to give the best of ourselves in supporting victims.