Monday, July 20, 2009
A new state-of-the art refuge for women and children affected by domestic abuse has opened in Glasgow.
The £1.8m purpose built facility, run by Drumchapel Women's Aid, offers secure accommodation for up to eight women and sixteen children at any one time.
The facility is part of the Scottish government's £10m National Domestic Abuse Delivery Plan, a priority of which is to ensure women and children affected by domestic abuse are helped into safe and suitable accommodation.
It features a crèche and a play room for young children and a games room with the latest gadgets and games consoles for older children.
An outside playground, placed discreetly at the back of the building, will allow children to play, unseen.
Victims will be able to visit a 'therapeutic room' to receive counselling as well as complementary therapies and massage.
Specialist support services will help users find permanent homes.
Officially opening the facility, Minister for housing and communities Alex Neil said: "Domestic abuse must not be tolerated in any form.
"For these brave women – many with children – who pluck up the courage to leave abusive partners, it's vitally important that effective support is available to help them rebuild their lives.
"This new facility provides a safe haven and is a home that I hope women and children will find comfortable living in while they get help to get back on their feet."
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