24/10/2024
New partnership provides safe haven for women in Breckland
Danielle Green, from Samphire and Hopestead, preparing the new safer living units in Breckland.
A housing association has joined forces with a homelessness charity and Breckland Council to provide safe accommodation for women fleeing domestic abuse.
Social landlord Samphire Homes has leased three two-bedroom flats in the Breckland area to the council to be used as a place women can live safely.
The flats have been furnished by the charity Hopestead, which, along with Samphire, is part of Flagship Group.
New curtains, kitchen appliances, sofas, bedding and children’s toys are among the items which have been delivered by the Hopestead team.
Bethan Bishop, Hopestead’s programme and policy manager, helping to furnish the safer living units.
Helen Marjoram, Samphire’s head of housing, said she was pleased the homes would give women a fresh start in their lives.
Ms Marjoram said: “We’ve seen there is a need for this kind of safe accommodation through the domestic abuse service that we offer. The council has been fantastic throughout, and together we’ve been able to respond to an acute need in the community.”
Lucy Parish, Hopestead’s head of operations, said: "We're proud to play a part in creating a safe and welcoming space for women and children during such a critical time in their lives.
“By providing essential furnishings and comforts, we hope to offer them not just a place to live, but a place where they can begin to rebuild with dignity and hope for the future."
Breckland’s executive member for housing and planning, Councillor Sarah Suggitt, added: "Breckland Council is committed to supporting vulnerable members of our community, and this includes providing safe accommodation for adults and children fleeing domestic abuse.
“We are proud to work with Samphire Homes and Hopestead to ensure these women and children have a safe place where they can begin healing and rebuilding their lives."