NEWS STORY: DECEMBER 2009

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Your home, your sanctuary

young girl

Threatened by domestic abuse? It's your right to stay in your home.

We can help victims of domestic abuse stay safer and more secure in their own home - especially good news at this time of year.

The Sanctuary Scheme is for people who could become homeless because of abuse from someone who has moved out. By fitting free security measures the scheme helps them stay living in their home. It's a partnership between local landlords, like Northwards, and Greater Manchester Police.

Forced out

Too often a victim of violence is forced out of their home. This is difficult enough on its own, but can be even more stressful if children have to be moved out of school too. The Sanctuary scheme can help prevent this upheaval.

We can create a safe room in your home, often the main bedroom. We replace the door with a special solid-core version that only opens outwards. It includes steel hinges, bolts and a viewer. We can add other security too - like extra locks on windows and doors, window grilles, gates and anti-arson letterboxes. The security package is individually designed to meet your needs.

“There can be more incidents of domestic abuse over Christmas as money worries and alcohol put extra pressure on relationships," explains Emma Foster, head of neighbourhood services. "We take a zero tolerance approach to domestic abuse and, as well as the Sanctuary Scheme, have people on hand to support vulnerable tenants".

Could you benefit?

Could you benefit from the Sanctuary scheme? If you live in a Northwards home, or know another Northwards resident who may benefit, CONTACT US as soon as you can.

If you don't live in a Northwards home, contact Manchester City Council for more advice.

We can help

Find out more about domestic abuse, and how we can help.

If you are in immediate danger

If there is an immediate threat of violence phone 999, or get someone else to phone immediately.

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