Sanctuary Scheme

DEFINITION OF THE SANCTUARY SCHEME:

A sanctuary type scheme must provide security measures to allow the survivor to remain in their home where they choose to do so, where safety can be guaranteed and the violent partner no longer lives within the home.  It must be available across tenures where the landlord of a property has given permission for the work to be carried out.  It must consist of additional security to any main entrance doors to the accommodation and locks to any vulnerable windows.  Wherever possible it must provide a safe room in the home secured with a solid core door and additional locks.  It is essential that this service is only provided where it is the clear choice of the survivor. 

The 'sanctuary scheme' is a survivor centred initiative, which aims to make it possible for survivors of domestic abuse and hate crime to remain in their homes and feel safe.

Sanctuary projects are designed to enable survivors to stay in their own homes where this is possible and desired, rather than being forced to move and disrupting education, employment and family networks.  These problems can be exacerbated by survivors of domestic abuse frequently being forced to move on numerous occasions.  It should also be noted that, apart from the social benefits, the cost of keeping a survivor and their family in their home can be considerably less expensive than the provision of emergency accommodation.

Important components of the model include:

• The scheme is voluntary and available to survivors living in any tenure.
• It provides additional security, enabling survivors of domestic abuse to remain in  their own homes where they wish, and it is appropriate, for them to do so.
• It should operate in conjunction with the police and the voluntary sector.
• As well as installing new or extra locks and lighting, a 'secure sanctuary' is created by creating a safe room with reinforced doors and bolts.
• Arrangements are tailored to the needs and circumstances of the individuals involved.