What To Expect In Refuge

What to Expect When You Come Into Refuge

Validating Your Feelings

We understand that arriving at refuge can feel overwhelming. It’s a big step, often taken during a time of crisis, and it’s completely normal to feel anxious, unsure, or even frightened. From the moment you get in touch, our team is here to support you with kindness, respect, and care.

How to Get Here

If you’re worried about how to get to us, we can help. Whether it’s arranging transport or talking through your options, we’ll work with you to make sure you can arrive safely and with as little stress as possible. If you’re unsure about moving in, we may also be able to arrange a visit beforehand so you can meet us, look around, and ask any questions.

Upon Arrival

When you arrive, a member of staff will greet you, show you around, and help you settle in. You’ll have your own private room with an en-suite bathroom, and access to shared kitchens, lounges, a playroom for children, and laundry facilities. If you’ve had to leave quickly and don’t have essentials with you, please don’t worry, we can provide toiletries, clothing, and other items to help you get started.

You’ll be introduced to your key worker, who will collaborate with you to understand your needs and begin building a personalised support plan. We’ll also complete a safety plan together to help keep you and your children safe. We’ll help you get to know the local area, register with services, and make sure you have everything you need to feel more at home.

Funding and Finances

We also understand that managing money during this time can be difficult. We’ll support you with budgeting, accessing benefits, and planning for your future so you can feel more in control of your finances.

Becoming More Comfortable

Lots of people feel overwhelmed when they first arrive—but with time, support, and space to breathe, things begin to feel more manageable. We’ll help you with every stage of the process, and soon, it will start to feel more comfortable. By the time many of our residents leave, they tell us they feel more confident, more hopeful, and ready to begin a new chapter in their lives.