Safe homes for people seeking safety from domestic abuse in East Sussex
Interventions Alliance appointed to deliver domestic abuse refuge services in East Sussex
Interventions Alliance has taken on responsibility for providing safe accommodation for people seeking safety from domestic abuse in Sussex. As part of the agreement to manage this project, Interventions Alliance will expand existing provision from 37 beds to 55 and will fill a gap in provision by opening new refuges to support up to an additional 12 women with multiple compound needs. Under the terms of the transfer of existing services, Interventions Alliance will welcome nine colleagues into the organisation who are already delivering 37 places in the community.
Who is the service for?
There will be 55 places for people and their children seeking safety from domestic abuse. There is protected provision for women in single sex accommodation.
In addition, there is specialist care available in two homes for up to a total 12 women aged 18+ from East Sussex who are experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse and are facing at least two of the following:
• Homelessness
• Substance misuse
• Poor mental health
• Past or present offending
People can stay with us for between six and 12 months, dependant on the service and needs of the person. They will receive wraparound support from our team of skilled professionals, volunteers, and peer supporters. Each person will have a personal care plan, focusing on safety, wellbeing, independence, and recovery.
Safety and confidentiality
For the safety of the people using our refuge, the location of our homes is confidential. Colleagues are available 24/7 and our services follows thorough safety planning and safeguarding procedures. We are also committed to being a good neighbour and trusted partner in the community.
How can people access refuge services?
If you need to access a refuge service, call the free 24-hour Domestic Violence Helpline on: 0808 2000 247 or email Interventions Alliance at: referrals.eastsussex@interventionsalliance.co.uk.
Please include a safe contact number or email address. State the best time to contact you. A member of the refuge team will call you back.
How can women with multiple compound needs access the specialist service?
Typically, women with multiple compound needs would access this service through one of the professionals they are already working with. This is through the Changing Futures Programme and MARM but also could include MARAC partners, IDVAs, housing teams, GPs and safeguarding teams. Community outreach services for this element of the service are operational but the dedicated refuge will open later in summer 2025.
If you think this service might be right for you – or someone you’re supporting – we encourage you to reach out.
Contact us at: MCNreferrals.eastsussex@interventionsalliance.co.uk
Director of Service Delivery at Interventions Alliance, Claire Jones, said:
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, possibly alongside other challenges, know that you are not alone. Our team is here to listen, support, and walk with you as you re-establish your life. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch – or speak to a professional who can refer you. We’re here when you’re ready.”
This recognition is a testament to every single colleague at Eden, doing brilliant work every day to support the women in our care and by extension, help make communities across the regions we serve safer and stronger.