Wokingham Borough Council is reaching out to borough residents who are unsafe in their own homes to ensure they understand what help is available.
The council is committed to keeping all residents safe and protecting vital council services, including sheltering those who are fleeing domestic abuse, whilst working towards a community in which people can live without fear of abuse.
The council’s home refuge scheme aims to help those affected by domestic abuse to remain in their home around their friends and family network if it is safe to do so. Where the perpetrator no longer lives or has the right to live in the property, the scheme can help those affected by domestic abuse to feel safer in their home through the provision of additional security measures. Measures are based on the individual property and can include door and window alarms, a video doorbell, padlocks on gates and a flap lock letter box which are installed free of charge.
If this is not an option, the council can offer advice and assistance about different options available to anyone in the borough that is homeless or threatened with homelessness due to domestic abuse.
When it is not safe to remain within the borough, the council will find a suitable placement elsewhere whilst exploring longer term housing options for those in need. Together a personalized housing plan can be created to offer a secure, safe and suitable long-term housing solution alongside referrals into appropriate services to ensure all needs are supported.
Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services said, “The cost of providing basic services is increasing dramatically, but we are committed to working with partners to ensure we have the resources available to continue to provide protection, a safe space and a support network to all our residents who need our help.
“Abuse can come in many forms including physical or sexual abuse, violent or threatening behavior, controlling or coercive behavior and economic abuse, as well as psychological and emotional abuse. I would encourage anyone who doesn’t feel safe in their own home to contact our team immediately”.
For further details about the council’s home refuge scheme, visit the council website. If you need emergency accommodation assistance outside of office hours or at weekends, you can contact the council emergency team on 0800 212 111.
If you are being subjected to any form of abuse, or know someone who is, there is local support available. The Wokingham borough domestic abuse service is delivered by Cranstoun. They provide support for male and female victims/survivors, children and young people and perpetrators. You can call 0118 402 1921 and speak to someone during office hours or their emergency duty service at other times. Alternatively, you can email or visit their website.