What is domestic violence?
How long can I stay at the refuge?
You can stay for as long (or short) as necessary! We allow for you to take the time you need to recover and figure out new options for your future. In general, our refuge is not a long-term solution but rather a place of temporary protection.
Can I bring my children?
Yes, you can bring your children when you move into our refuge. Even if it is certainly difficult for them to leave their familiar home, it will be even more stressful for them to continue experiencing domestic violence. Children who witness violence against a parent will always live in fear for their own safety. A women’s refuge is, therefore, also a confidential shelter for children.
What is it like to live in a refuge?
At our women’s refuge you yourself decide how your daily routine (and the daily routine of your child/children) looks like. It will also be your responsibility to cook meals for yourself and your child/children. Our house has three floors with separate rooms for up to 5 adults
(plus their children) on each of them. On each floor there is one shared bathroom and one shared kitchen. The refuge is close to public transport and different types of supermarkets, drugstores etc. There are also two shared washing machines in the basement of our refuge.
We have a large, fenced and protected garden as well as a large playroom in our attic where children can play.
Our office and counseling rooms are located on the first floor and our staff members are available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 20:00. However, in emergency cases, you can always call them at night or during the weekends.
How do I pay for my stay?
If you do not have an own income when moving into our refuge, you are entitled to apply for welfare benefits. We will help you with the application and all necessary administrative procedures.
Can I (or my children) have visitors?
Our refuge is a place of protection with a confidential address that wants to guarantee you and the other residents a safe place to live. For this reason, the address of the refuge must not be disclosed. This also means that neither you nor your child/children can have visitors. However, you can always meet your friends, family and acquaintances at other places.
What if I want to go back?
If you decide to return to your previous living situation, we will, of course, respect your decision. Staying in a women’s refuge is always a voluntary decision. If you are exposed to domestic violence again, you can call us again at any time.