An innovative new partnership that helps residents at risk from domestic violence to stay safely in their own homes as won a prestigious national award.<br><br>Islington Council's Home Shelter Scheme has been recognised at the UK Housing Awards 2005, fending off competition from around the country to win the category of "Excellence in Tackling Homelessness". <br><br>The scheme helps those escaping domestic violence to feel and to be safer by installing a host of security measures including solid core doors, fireproofed letterboxes and even a reinforced 'safe room' to give those being threatened enough time to call the police. <br><br>It means they are less likely to flee their homes, uproot their lives, and protects them from the added vulnerability of homelessness. <br><br>This home sanctuary concept offers a tailor-made and holistic approach to beating the crime, including information and support on taking legal action. <br><br>The Home Shelter Scheme is a partnership project between Islington Council, the police, Domestic Violence Matters, Homes for Islington and Kier Islington. <br><br>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>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