Guidance for Refuge Referrals
Eligibility
Women of 16 years of age (no upper age limit) and their children who need a safe place to stay due to domestic abuse.
Unfortunately we are unable to accept boys over the age of 12 years due to the layout of the refuge.
We are unable to accept serious offenders, and women with a history of violence. If in doubt, contact the staff by telephoning 01457 856675 for advice
In order to assess an applicant's level of support need and the appropriateness of GWA in meeting those needs, we require as much information about the applicant as possible.
Where applicable, please provide as much information as you can.
1. HISTORY OF DOMESTIC ABUSE
2.HOUSING HISTORY. Include last known address; outline accomodation history giving reasons for tenancy breakdown where applicable. Please include addresses of any supported housing projects/hostels/refuges where the applicant has lived before, with dates, if known.
3. SUPPORT NETWORK. Outline the applicant's current support network, including an outline of family support if applicable. Provide contact names and addresses.
4. FINANCIAL SITUATION. State current income e.g. salary or benefit type.
5. RISK ASSESSMENT. Please give your opinion of the applicant's likelihood of:
- Violence toward other residents, staff and/or support workers.
- Deliberate self-harm, including suicide attempts.
- Self-harm through misadventure or self-neglect.
- Vulnerability to abuse or intimidation by others.
- Misuse of alcohol, illicit and/or prescribed drugs.
ASSESSMENT. Refferals will be assessed as quickly as possible and the speed of decision will largely depend on the ability of the referring agency to provide appropriate information to support the referral. Offers are made on the basis of information provided in referral applications.
PRIORITISATION. Our aim is to provide a stable and supportive environment in which individuals who have experienced domestic abuse are assisted to maintain a settled way of life. In allocating accommodation every effort will be made to maintain a safe environment for all residents and staff. We may from time to time have to delay or refuse a potential referral having taken into account the needs of the existing resident group as a whole.
OFFERS. The refuge may maintain a waiting list, if necessary, and those assessed, as being in greatest need will be contacted first if a vacancy arises. If more than one referral has been assessed as suitable to recieve an offer of acccomodation the allocation will be made according to the greatest need (see Prioritisation, above).
Please note that offers made on the basis of false, misleading or incomplete information may later be withdrawn in the light of information not previously disclosed.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES. Glossop Women's Aid reserves the right to refuse any referral, although full reasons for refusal will be given. GWA maintains a strict Equal Opportunities Policy.
APPEALS. Appeals against any referral allocation decision should be made in writing to the Services Manager at Glossop Women's Aid, PO BOX 22, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 8AE, in the first instance. The manager will reply in writing. You may be accompanied by a friend or advocate at any appeals meeting and any subsequent decision will be given in writing.
COMPLAINTS. The GWA Complaints and Comments Policy and leaflet are available from the above address on request.
