Our “Strong Survivors” project is a 12-month pilot programme to provide specialist support to young, single women (aged 17-21) who have fled domestic abuse and are living within our emergency refuge accommodation.  

SAHWR will employ a dedicated Specialist Young Women Worker to deliver weekly activities, including:

• Skills workshops – A range of trauma informed “in-house” and partner-led sessions, designed to build “life-skills” (e.g. healthy eating/nutrition, budgeting, cv writing), understanding “healthy relationships” and support financial literacy, education and employment pathways.

• Peer group activities – Activities (chosen by the group) designed to reduce isolation, build friendships, improve wellbeing, share experiences and build confidence and self-esteem.  

Young women will be referred into this programme as part of their initial DASH Assessment and Individual Safely Support Plan when they arrive at our refuge.  Individuals will be supported for the 4-6 months living in refuge and then invited to continue participation in the ongoing peer activities following resettlement into the local community.