Refuge set up in Wiltshire for male domestic abuse victims
Wiltshire Council and charity Julian House will run the service
A new refuge has been set up in Wiltshire to support male victims of domestic abuse who flee a violent relationship.
It's being run by charity Julian House, with funding that Wiltshire Council's got from the Government.
The location of the refuge isn't being revealed for security reasons.
The accommodation is a flat which can accommodate two adult males that require low to medium support.
Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:
“Everyone can be a victim of domestic violence which is why it is so important we have refuge accommodation available for men, in addition to the support already provided by Wiltshire’s domestic abuse support service, FearFree.
Julian House is experienced in providing lifechanging support for victims of domestic violence in the county and I’m really pleased that we’re working in partnership with them to increase the support available.”
Helen Bedser, Chief Executive of Julian House, said:
"We are really proud to be opening this refuge for male victims of domestic violence in Wiltshire, adding to our existing refuge services for women and children in the county.
"One in seven men will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. We are determined to provide the support that male victims in the local community need to recover, regain their independence and build a new life for themselves."