For too many women, the threat of violence is a daily reality, turning homes into places of fear instead of safety. The journey to escape abuse is one of immense courage, but it is often fraught with uncertainty. This is Amara’s story – a powerful account of resilience and the transformative power of having a safe place to call home. At Patron Capital, we are honoured to share her story, which underscores the vital mission of the Women in Safe Homes fund, our joint venture with Resonance.
Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, stories like Amara’s are more important than ever. They shine a light on a crisis that often remains in the shadows, and they demonstrate the profound impact of targeted support and investment.
A Cycle of Fear and the Courage to Break It
Amara’s life was upended by violence not once, but twice. The first time, she was forced to flee her family after experiencing honour-based violence. This traumatic event severed her from her support system and left her isolated. “I grew up with my family but had to flee to a refuge after being raped due to honour-based violence. I have not had any contact with my family since then,” she says.
After finding her footing, she entered a new relationship, hoping for a fresh start. Instead, the cycle of abuse began again. “About two years ago I met my ex-partner, and he persuaded me to move in with him which meant I gave up my tenancy. The control started not long after that then escalated to physical abuse. I had to flee again.”
Leaving an abusive partner is an incredibly brave act, but it often leaves women in a state of housing crisis. For Amara, this crucial moment was met with a lifeline. She was connected with Safer Places, a specialist housing provider and one of the expert partners of the Women in Safe Homes fund.
The First Step Towards a New Beginning
Finding a safe, stable home marked a turning point for Amara. The immediate sense of security provided the space she needed to begin healing and to start looking toward the future without fear. The home was more than just a building; it was a sanctuary.
“It was welcoming as soon as I walked through the front door,” Amara recalls of her new home. “It felt homely. It has given me freedom and safety.”
This feeling of safety is the cornerstone of recovery. For women who have experienced trauma, having a secure base is essential for processing their experiences and making decisions about their future. Without the constant pressure of an unsafe environment, Amara could finally focus on herself.
Finding Support, Community, and Herself
The support Amara received from Safer Places, an organisation with over 45 years of experience supporting survivors across Essex and Hertfordshire, went far beyond housing. It was holistic, trauma-informed, and tailored to her needs.
“It has helped me to be able to concentrate on the things that matter – having time to be able to process information without the fear of making a wrong decision,” she explains. “There has not been any pressure on me, so I have been able to take time in thinking about options that are available to me.”
Through weekly support sessions, Amara worked on her mental health and began exploring opportunities for her future, including college courses and volunteering. Crucially, she also found a community of other women who understood her experience. This connection combatted the isolation that so often accompanies abuse and helped her build a new support network.
“My plans for the future are looking for full-time work and to expand my friends. I am completely safe now and have made friends with others through the groups who understand what it is like having to leave everything behind.”
Our Commitment to Creating Safe Homes
Amara’s story is a powerful illustration of why the Women in Safe Homes fund was created. This gender-lens impact investment property fund, a joint venture between Patron Capital and Resonance, directly addresses the housing crisis for women at risk. We know that domestic abuse is a leading cause of women’s homelessness, with an estimated 1.4 million women in the UK experiencing it in 2023.
By investing in safe, high-quality homes and partnering with expert women’s sector organisations like Safer Places, we can provide the foundation for recovery. The fund has raised £29 million and has already purchased 78 properties, providing homes for over 350 women and children so far.
These homes are more than just properties; they are places of healing, empowerment, and new beginnings. Amara’s journey from a life of fear to one of safety and optimism is a testament to the fund’s impact. Her story, and others like it, drive our commitment at Patron Capital to continue making a meaningful difference and investing in a future where every woman has a safe place to call home.
