SAHWR Information

SAHWR has been providing services to victims of domestic violence and abuse for over 40 years. The services have expanded and developed to meet the changing needs of victims. Our original Refuge opened in St Albans in 1982 and remains the hub of all our services across the South West of Hertfordshire. The definition of domestic violence and abuse is “Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can encompass, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse: psychological; physical; sexual; financial; emotional”. Domestic Abuse has a devastating and lasting impact on victims. Our aim is to reduce the risks, support recovery and reduce the risk of repeat victimisation, ensuring that victims are supported holistically to reclaim their lives. Currently we provide accommodation, community and programme-based services to women, men and children in five districts in Hertfordshire. This includes the capacity to accommodate 26 families and up to 45 children deemed to be at the highest risk of harm. Our refuges are clean welcoming and homely; families are supported by dedicated qualified staff. Families stay with us for four months and within this time we address their immediate need for safety and support them to move on to safe alternative accommodation.