Women's Refuge in Yeovil reopens after refurb (From Yeovil Express)

Women's Refuge in Yeovil reopens after refurb

4:30pm Friday 3rd July 2009

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THE Women’s Refuge in Yeovil has reopened after a complete refurbishment, providing a safe haven for up to 11 women and 25 children.

The refurbishment of the facility, which is owned by Magna Housing Association and run by Barnabas Housing Association, was completed with the support of South Somerset District Council and funding from the Homes and Communities Agency.

With three new bedrooms for singles or mothers with children, the new refuge has 11 self-contained rooms each with their own bathroom and kitchen area, making huge progress on the previous layout which only offered shared facilities. The refuge now also includes two fully wheelchair-accessible rooms.

The council’s housing spokesman, Cllr Ric Pallister, said: “I am immensely pleased that this facility has now been completed.

“Many of us cannot even begin to imagine what those suffering domestic violence have been through. They now have a high standard, modern, but most importantly, safe place to go for them and their children whatever the age. South Somerset District Council is totally committed to this project.”

Magna Housing Association director, David Aldwinckle, said: “We’re pleased with the refurbishment work at the refuge and feel it has enhanced the facilities on offer. “We’re proud to be working in partnership with Barnabas Housing and South Somerset District Council in providing such an essential service.”

Barnabas managing director, Mary Firth, added: “Funding was also provided by Somerset County Council via the Somerset Supporting People Partnership which assists a wide range of vulnerable people, including women and children fleeing domestic abuse.

“We are very grateful to the local community for their continued support, especially during the upheaval of the refurbishment. This new project will enable Barnabas Housing Association to provide high standard living accommodation and improve current services.”

Here are some quotes from those at the refuge – who obviously cannot be named.

* “The refuge is not too big, it's just the right size. The best part of being here is the self contained living and not having to share bathroom and other facilities.”

* “Compared to horror stories you hear about refuges it was a relief to arrive at SSWR and find out it was not true of this refuge.”

* “Staff are very helpful and approachable and I know they are here if they are needed, but I also have my own privacy now.”

* “Chuffed to bits with being here.”

Pictured in our main group photo are (from left) site agent for Michael Parker Homes, Stuart Glover; Faithorn Farrell Timms surveyor, James Scott; Cllr Ric Pallister; Magna Housing Group project manager Sarah Barney; Barnabas Housing Association managing director Mary Firth; Barnabas Housing Association acting manager Cheryl Burgess.

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