Having grown up in the Midlands, Lucy’s life changed drastically when she was forced to leave her home due to domestic abuse. She had been living with her two young children, but the environment had become unsafe – and leaving was the only option.
Lucy was moved to safety by Refuge, one of the Women in Safe Homes fund’s expert housing partners. She and her children were placed in one of Refuge’s dispersed accommodation properties in Warwickshire – part of a new pilot programme commissioned by Warwickshire County Council. Nineteen of these homes have been purchased through the fund, offering safe, self-contained accommodation and specialist support for women fleeing abuse.
“Having somewhere to call home – even temporarily – gives us stability,” Lucy says. “We’ve been able to continue on with our lives without too much disruption.”
The move brought more than just physical safety – it gave Lucy and her children emotional space to begin healing. She’s proud of how they’ve adjusted to their new environment.
“We’ve familiarised ourselves with the local area, and I’ve managed to get my son into a local nursery.”
With support from Refuge, Lucy has been able to access practical help and advice, something many women in similar situations go without.
“I’ve received lots of support in all areas – from making a housing application to getting my son into nursery. It’s made such a difference.”
Living independently has also allowed Lucy to regain confidence and develop essential life skills.
“This home has shown us how to live as a family of three, with me handling all the bills and responsibilities. It’s helped build the skills I’ll need for future housing.”
Reflecting on the journey, Lucy recognises just how transformative this opportunity has been for her family.
“Without this property, I would have still been in the same situation, trying to leave my previous home. This new home has given us the chance to start again. It’s been a great relief.”
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Lucy’s story is featured in the newly published Women in Safe Homes Fund Social Impact Report, which highlights the experiences of women and children across the UK who have been housed and supported by the fund.
The Women in Safe Homes fund
The fund is a gender-lens impact investment property fund that was launched in December 2020 to provide safe, decent and affordable homes across the UK for women escaping domestic abuse and leaving the criminal justice system. It is a joint venture of Resonance and Patron Capital and it works in partnership with eight housing partners to ensure women have access to the wraparound, trauma-led support they might need in order to start their recoveries and rebuild their lives.
The fund is fully deployed, having purchased 122 properties, and so far, has housed over 500 women and children. Over its lifetime, the fund aims to house and support over 2,300 women and children in these homes.
Louise Swinden
Property Fund Manager, Resonance
