Emmaus North East, a homelessness charity, will deliver a new domestic abuse support service that Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth has described as 'transformative'. The service is funded through the PCC's Supporting Victims Programme, which allocates over £3.6 million annually to 30 specialist victim-survivor services across the Northumbria area.
New Referral and Signposting Service
Domestic abuse is a leading cause of homelessness for women, and the new service will provide one-to-one emotional support, referral to counselling, safety planning, and advocacy. Depending on availability, accommodation may also be offered. Emmaus North East, established in 2009, already provides homes for homeless individuals, including women-only accommodation.
Northumbria PCC Susan Dungworth said: 'I've seen first-hand the transformative impact Emmaus is having in our communities, helping tackle homelessness while also supporting individuals escaping and recovering from domestic abuse.' She added: 'The women-only accommodation is particularly significant. There are many women who are too frightened to stay in mixed-sex hostels, so Emmaus has taken welcome action to address that.'
Holistic Support Through Social Enterprises
Emmaus North East also offers work opportunities through several social enterprises, including three charity shops, a woodworking and recycling project, and the UK's only free community laundrette. Ruth Parker, CEO of Emmaus North East, said: 'It was good to welcome Susan Dungworth... where she heard real life stories of the experiences of homeless women and the positive impact our support has had on them, which for many has been life changing.'
Parker noted: 'The funding through the Victims Fund will allow us to support more homeless women who have been victims of crime. As it is difficult to accurately record the number of homeless women, the demand for the service is somewhat unknown, importantly though, we will be there 24/7 to take referrals and offer help.'
Voices from the Service
Abby, a resident of Emmaus North East's women-only accommodation, shared: 'Things are going well for me. Having my own room and my own space means everything, especially after wondering where I would be sleeping next. The women-only building is great because it has everything you need, including a kitchen.' She added: 'If you’re not comfortable being around men, you don’t have to be. You can cook for yourself and take things at your own pace. Over time, as your confidence grows, you can choose to mix with others if and when you’re ready.'
The Supporting Victims Programme funds a range of services across the region, providing support to victims of crime, including children and young people. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the PCC to address domestic abuse and homelessness in Northumbria.
