Sign-up to our Newsletter
Refuge and support for those affected by domestic abuse
We have two refuge’s in Bolton, Lewis House and a safe house based in the local community.
Lewis House is a safe place for women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse. It provides purpose built temporary accommodation and professional support services for those fleeing violent or abusive domestic relationships.
The safe house offers a welcoming environment for families with older children and LGBTQ victims, those living here are offered professional wraparound support from trained workers.
Both addresses are confidential to guarantee the security and anonymity you need to rebuild your life.
What should I expect?
We know new residents can feel apprehensive, so we have made both places a warm, welcoming and comfortable place to stay. In Lewis House we have 22 self-contained furnished flats, each with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living area. Children and young people are welcome. Your space is your own for the duration of your time with us. In the safe house you will have your own facilities.
On arrival at Lewis House you’ll meet your personal Recovery Worker who will explain the house rules, show you around and introduce you to some of the other women and children. We provide you with a welcome pack that includes everything you need to feel at home during those first few days – bedding, toiletries, food, and even teddies and toys for the children. If you can’t bring all the essentials with you from home, we can provide you with items like clothes, nappies, towels and blankets.
Our support workers are accessible 24 hours a day to residents of both refuges. The team includes specialists in emotional wellbeing, practical support with housing and benefits, help for children and young people, and a multi-lingual BAME support worker. All our accommodation and support is free to access, although if you are working we may ask you to make a contribution towards your living costs.
How can I get a room at one of the refuges?
The first step is to contact us. Call our confidential 24-hour advice line on 01204 365677 or send a secure message through our website. We assess each case to make sure our service is right for you. If we have no flats available, we will do everything we can to find you a place at another refuge or alternative accommodation locally. If our assessment shows that you need a different kind of support, we will talk to other service providers and find you the support you need.
Preparing to leave…
We understand that everyone’s needs are different so we will never put pressure on you to leave our refuge, however our residential accommodation is temporary. Once you feel emotionally stable and ready to move on, you’ll have our full support to ease back into the community, including help to find suitable accommodation, employment and schools.