Refuge Accomodation

Quite a few people don’t leave abusive relationships because of the fear that they’ll become homeless. This is where organisations like Hopian step in; we run a refuge and dispersed refuge properties for those fleeing domestic abuse.

The refuge is about getting you (and your children) to immediate safety, allowing you time to decompress and have some breathing space. It is temporary accommodation where you will be supported by experienced staff so you can start thinking and decide what next.

Rotherham Rise Video: Learn about our Refuge Services. Please note that Hopian was formely known as Rotherham Rise.

We have a core women’s refuge for women and their children, and our dispersed refuge properties are for, for example, families with older children, men or those moving from our women’s refuge before moving to another type of housing.

Support is 24/7, 354 days per year for our core refuge and dispersed refuge properties, by experienced individuals passionate about your welfare.

About the Refuge

What can I expect of a refuge?

All our properties, self-contained flats in our core refuge and dispersed properties, are well kitted out, well maintained, and fully furnished; bed linen and towels included.
Every resident receives a welcome pack as well as some basic groceries to get them settled.

Will I have to give up my home if I move into refuge?

We won’t ask you to give up your property/tenancy when you move into refuge; this is your decision, and we will never force you to make choices you need to make yourself.

As refuge is temporary accommodation, we would use the time you are here to help you decide what you would like to do moving forward.

Whilst you decide, we can help you apply for the correct financial help to cover the cost of your rent on your property whilst you are living with us.

I don’t have any money; how can I get to refuge?

We can support you to get free train travel to refuge. We will then arrange for a taxi or worker to pick you up and bring you to refuge.

How do I get a refuge space?

The freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline can be accessed by calling 0808 2000 247. They will be able to support you to search for refuge spaces available throughout the UK.
Alternatively, for refuge spaces specifically within Rotherham, please contact 0870 850 2247 during normal office hours.

Do I need to pay for a refuge space?

Yes. However, this cost is “needs assessed based” on your circumstances. Hopian refuge does charge a Personal Service Charge, ranging from £23 to £31 per week, which covers utilities and support costs that are normally claimed through benefits.

We support survivors who have no recourse to public funds, this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Can I access the refuge with a pet?

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept pets in our accommodation. However, organisations such as the Dogs Trust can help you foster your pet while you are in temporary accommodation. Our staff will support you with this if you would like to do so.

Learn more about the Dogs Trust’s Freedom Project – click here.

I have disabilities. Could I still be housed in refuge?

Yes. Our core refuge is accessible via a ramp and there is a lift to the upper floors. We also have two flats on the ground floor with wet rooms. Our dispersed properties are not adapted for disabilities.
All referrals will be assessed for suitability to ensure our service can meet each person’s needs.

Do you provide refuge accommodation to men or other-gendered (to women) adults?

Yes.
Our core refuge is for women only with male children under 16yrs, but we support men, other-gendered adults, and families with older male children through our dispersed properties.

I will have to leave all my belongings behind, how will I manage?

We are here to support you. Also, there are services that can support you and staff can request for any donations of items that you may need. Finally essential items will be provided at refuge.

About Children in Refuge

Can my children still attend school when we are in refuge?

We have specialist workers who will support you to get your child into a local school close to refuge or advise you on safety if your child stays in the same school.

Can I bring my male children to refuge?

In our core women’s refuge, we accept male children up to 16 years old. We also have dispersed refuge accommodation, which can accommodate families with no upper age limit, regardless of gender.

My children don’t want to leave… what do I do?

We have resources that can help you explain safety to children and what to expect when they go to refuge.