Residents at risk from domestic violence can seek refuge in their own safe room, thanks to an innovative new scheme to help stop the abuse. <br><br>The Home Shelter Scheme, which is a partnership project between Islington Council, the police, Domestic Violence Matters, Homes for Islington and Kier Islington, has been shortlisted for a prestigious UK Housing Award. <br><br>The scheme not only helps those escaping domestic violence to feel and to be safer but it also prevents them from becoming to even more vulnerable by becoming homelessness.<br><br>Fireproof letterboxes, solid core doors and reinforced safe rooms are just a few of the options on offer in this tailor-made approach to beating the crime, as well as information and support on taking legal action. <br><br>Specialist building teams from Kier Islington, who carry out the work, are security specialists, specifically trained to deal sensitively with people who are under the threat of harassment or violence.<br><br>The home sanctuary concept gives people being threatened enough time to call the police. It means they are less likely to flee their homes, uproot their lives, and end up homeless. <br><br>As well as contributing to crime reduction, it also helps to safeguard looked after children, empowers excluded people and makes vulnerable people safer. <br><br>It also saves money and reduces the demand for much needed social housing. <br><br>One resident who wished to remain anonymous said: “Me and my daughter feel much safer since our home shelter was put in. It was a huge relief not to have to uproot our lives.”<br><br>Cllr Jyoti Vaja, executive member for housing and community safety said: “Families who are trying to escape domestic violence often become doubly vulnerable as they have to uproot their lives and flee their homes. Home Shelter empowers them by giving them the choice to remain in their homes and feel safe. It’s a great example of successful partnership working that makes for safer, more secure communities.”<br><br>Anyone who has concerns about domestic violence should contact Domestic Violence Matters on 020 7421 0340.<br><br>In an emergency dial 999.<br><br>ENDS
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009