NEWS STORY: DECEMBER 2007

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Northwards in the news

New scheme locks out trouble

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

A major new scheme will help victims of domestic violence 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 violence 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. It shows we're determined to support victims and will not tolerate perpetrators' violence.

If you need to use the scheme we would 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. Each security package is individually designed to meet the person's needs.

Police experts agree it's a safe option. Inspector Steve McFarlane of Ancoats neighbourhood policing team said: "Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home, yet for some victims of domestic abuse this is not always the case. We hope the scheme means anyone who has suffered can have somewhere they can feel safe and secure at home."

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.

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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