Councils help create a sanctuary for survivors of domestic abuse

The Sanctuary Scheme aims to help survivors to stay in their homes, close to their support networks of friends, family, school and work.

The councils' trained officers assess the home and if the perpetrator no longer lives within the same property and has no legal rights to do so, then they can install extra security measures, such as new locks, security lights and alarms to enable survivors to feel secure.

South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member, Cllr Kim Carsok, said:

“A home should be a sanctuary, somewhere people feel safe and secure. So often in these cases the victims are forced to move away from their friends and family at a time when they need them the most. This new scheme means that survivors can continue to live at home and be close to their support networks, while the extra security provides reassurance.”

Broadland District Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Natasha Harpley, said:

“Domestic abuse is sadly all too prevalent throughout our society, with the police in England and Wales receiving approximately 100 calls every hour relating to it. We need to do all we can to support survivors, and making sure that they are safe and secure in their own homes is a crucial part of that process.”

This service is free to all residents, whether tenants in social housing, privately renting, or homeowners. In cases where landlord consent is required, the councils' Sanctuary Officers will try to obtain this.

To make a request and for more information, please visit our website and search ‘Sanctuary’, or call 0808 178 4702 to speak to the councils' Help Hub.