0131 475 2399
Find out how you canWhat we Do
Our servicesOur aim is to enable women to move from dependence to independence, some BME women have been isolated and completely dependant upon men and the family.
We help women to decide and determine her own future and what is right for her. And we create a safe space where informed choices can be made about what is right for the woman. We promote respect and acceptance for women of all backgrounds.
These are the steps we follow to help women escaping domestic abuse:
Every women that contacts us for help is assigned to one of our case workers.
The case workers role is to listen to the women and help 
her
to explore different options which may vary depending upon her circumstances.
Of course everything is discussed between the women and the case worker is kept
confidential and no information will be disclosed without the women’s permission.
Our first priority is to ensure that the women and her children have a safe place
to stay, this can be a place in the refuge or in the City of Edinburgh Council
temporary accommodation. Not all women move into the refuge, some are supported
in temporary local authority accommodation, housing associations or in private
or family settings. For some women it may not be safe or practical for her to
stay in Edinburgh in such cases we have contacts with other women’s aid
groups and specialist refuges across the country, they can also provide safety
and refuge accommodation.
The case workers provide emotional and practical support. Emotional support can consist of one-to-one sessions, we encourage women to recognise and build on their strengths and to make available opportunities which help to build and strengthen self-esteem and belief in oneself. If formal counselling is needed we refer women onto suitable agencies.
Practical support consists of giving information/advice and advocacy when dealing with different agencies such as Housing, Social Work, Health, Benefits and solicitors. Furthermore Independent interpreting is arranged when needed.
Our children's workers work with the women’s children. As well as providing practical and emotional support, children workers are also responsible for arranging various activities, i.e. group outings, birthday celebrations, drop in afternoons, festive celebrations.
The length time that women stay in the refuge or temporary accommodation, and the length of time that women need support can vary depending upon individual circumstances.
When a woman moves from the refuge or temporary accommodation the follow-up workers help with both practical and emotional aspects involved with re-housing. Support is given to make new contacts, formal and social, to regain confidence, to keep up with children’s needs. Children's workers are involved with the children, some may experience initial difficulties in settling down at a new school or adjusting to the changes that come with moving from refuge.
