Hull Women's Network

Challenge​

85% of women fleeing domestic violence sought help on average five times from professionals in the year before they got effective help to stop the abuse. Access to safe, high quality housing can be an important lifeline for women making their first attempt at escape, but it’s hard to find, in short supply, and often over-subscribed.

Hull has one of the highest incidences of domestic violence in England. In 2018/19, Hull Women's Network (HWN) received over 650 applications for accommodation. As well as crisis and supported accommodation, there’s a big need for move-on accommodation after the statutory two-year term of supported accommodation ends.​ Housing benefits payments for supported accommodation will repay the investment.

Approach​

HWN offers specialist domestic abuse support, nursery provision, family law legal services, training and volunteering opportunities, and access to safe and affordable housing across Hull. Property ownership lets HWN offer comfortable and safe homes for vulnerable women and children, making it possible for them to stabilise and rebuild their lives. This reduces the risk of them later returning to the abusive situation they left.​ HWN received investment from Social and Sustainable Capital's Social and Sustainable Housing Fund, and its Community Investment Fund, which Big Society has invested £26 million in across both funds.

​Impact​

Funding from Social and Sustainable Capital's Social and Sustainable Housing Fund, and its Community Investment Fund, has meant the charity can buy an extra 82 homes for the long-term benefit of women and children fleeing domestic violence. By buying homes to use as supported accommodation and move-on homes, the charity is able to support women for longer than two years.