what is life like in a refuge

[lifeinarefuge]

Hi

it looks like this may bemy best/only option

I'm worried about what life will be like and how we'll move on to a 'normal' life?

can anyone tell me?

I stayed in one with my children for a month or so, a few years ago now.

Good points - clean, warm, rather exciting sharing a room - a bit like youth hosteling! Had been subject to very extreme financial abuse so enjoyed shopping for food for first time in 5 years. Good play worker, garden, play room etc.

Bad points - I always tell people this as it was such a shock to me - the expense. I was working so had to pay rent. Which would have been fine but was still paying mortgage on the house I'd left... I had literally nothing for s fortnight until work managed to advance me some pay - no mean feat for a public sector employer. So ANY money you can put aside, do so.

Also, the workers there knew nothing of legal/financial matters so get really good advice from a solicitor/financial advisor/wherever.

Most of the refuges have their own website, some with "virtual tours" so you can find out more. I did all my contact with women's aid by email (from work as was not allowed to use the phone) and this seemed quite a secure option.

I was in a refuge for a time with my mother and siblings when I was 9. It felt safe.
I do remember it was hard shopping wise as we had one very small locker for keeping our food in.
But I do remember how nice and supportive everyone was and that they brought various agencies and useful bodies in to help my mum. They supported her through having to have surgery after a very bad beating, getting a divorce, injunctions, getting the benefits she was entitled to. They saved our lives.