Two safe havens for abuse survivors become reality

Work on the properties has begun after The Indy's campaign with Refuge raises nearly £600,000, says Maya Oppenheim

- Maya Oppenheim

Two safe houses for survivors of domestic abuse and their children fleeing torment and violence are being built as a result of The Independent’s hugely successful Brick by Brick campaign.

The roof is being added to the first property and work is underway on the second after the initial £300,000 fundraising target was smashed within weeks. The powerful campaign, which was launched with leading domestic abuse charity Refuge in September, has prompted a national conversation about the prevalence of violence within relationships, coercive control and the many vicious forms domestic abuse takes.

Generous donations have poured in from readers, celebrities, businesses and campaigners, bringing the current total to £576,984. Both houses – which are being installed with safety alarms and fireproof letter boxes – should be completed by spring.

Support has come from leading UK figures, including prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, the Queen, Dame Joanna Lumley, Dame Helen Mirren, Victoria Derbyshire and Sir Patrick Stewart. Dame Joanna said: “I am thrilled to hear of these two houses nearing completion, spreading their wings of security and comfort and refuge for the beloveds who so desperately need them.”

A spokesperson for the Queen added: “I know Her Majesty will be delighted to hear that, thanks to the generosity of so many, not one but two new refuges are to be built. As Her Majesty’s recent documentary on the issue made clear, the cause is so vital and one she is determined to keep highlighting in the hope of building a better future for all survivors of abuse – brick by brick.”