Many people have to leave their home because of domestic
violence, the Sanctuary Scheme offers an alternative option for
victims or survivors of abuse who wish to remain in their own
home.
What is the Sanctuary Scheme?
The Sanctuary Scheme is designed to enable
victims of domestic abuse to remain in their own home where it is
safe for them to do so and where it is their choice. It is a
partnership scheme between the Council and national charity
Safe Partnerships (external
link).
The scheme involves the installation of
security equipment - such as door chains, viewers, window
locks and personal safety alarms - to allow the victim to
carry on living in their home. In extreme cases a
sanctuary room will be built. This involves turning one room in the
house into a safe room where the victim can stay until the
emergency services arrive (not every house will be suitable for a
sanctuary room).
How does it work?
Once you have been accepted onto the scheme, a security
installer will visit your home and assess which package -
basic, basic plus or full sanctuary - is most
suitable for you, and the necessary security measures
will be fitted the same day. You will also be offered support
from the West Lancashire Women's Refuge throughout the process.
Who can apply?
To be eligible to apply to the scheme,
you must be:
- Eligible for assistance (i.e. have access to public funds)
- A victim or survivor of domestic abuse
- Want to remain in your home
- Live within the West Lancashire area
- Have rights to occupy the property
- Be at risk of homelessness if the sanctuary is not
provided
The scheme is open to owner-occupiers, private
tenants, West Lancashire Borough Council tenants and housing
association tenants. You can also be considered if
you permanently live with family.
If you do not own the accommodation,
permission will need to be sought from the owner before any work
can be carried out. Safe Partnerships will contact the owner for
you and ask for permission.
The scheme is not available where the perpetrator of the
violence lives at the address.
How long will I wait for a security installer to visit?
In urgent cases, Safe Partnerships will contact you and
arrange to visit within 24 hours. In all other cases, contact
and a visit will be arranged within 48 hours.
Is there a cost?
No, the scheme is free.
How do I apply?
A Sanctuary Scheme application form must be completed, this can
be done by the applicant or by any agency or voluntary
sector service that the person may be receiving support from.
Contact us
For more information please contact the Homelessness Advice
& Prevention Team.
Tel: 01695 577177
Email: homelessness@westlancs.gov.uk
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