We have launched an appeal to help fund a new children and young people’s hub at our emergency refuge for families recovering from domestic violence and abuse.

At Leeds Women’s Aid, we support over 100 children and young people in refuge settings each year, with almost every adult accessing the refuge service having one or more children who have witnessed or experienced the trauma of domestic violence and abuse. Families arrive in our refuges vulnerable and scared, as they have had to leave their homes, families, schools and possessions, and sometimes move many miles in order to be safe, away from harm. We ensure families feel safe when they arrive with us by using a trauma informed approach and creating an environment that promotes dignity, self-respect and well-being. The new children’s and young people’s hub will provide a crucial space for a variety of specialist one to one support, group work and activities for these families.

Emmeline is our largest refuge we manage and all of its living accommodation is self-contained, with communal areas for the families and a large outside space. The new children and young people’s hub project will involve a major refurbishment of an existing building on site, including installing a first floor, a new kitchen, a new heating system, accessible entry and toilets and a designated sensory area for under five-year olds. 

The aim of the hub is to create a sanctuary for children and young people to visit to relax, play and interact with other children, helping their recovery from the impacts of domestic violence and abuse. 

We are hoping to raise £20,000 through this public appeal to go towards building the hub. Any support is greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Leeds Women’s Aid