Wandsworth Council announces Hestia to support survivors of domestic abuse

Domestic abuse victims in Wandsworth will receive support from one of the largest service providers in London from November 1.

Hestia, founded by Jim Horne in 1970, has been commissioned by Wandsworth Council to provide local men, women and children with emergency accommodation and victim advocacy.

They campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect domestic abuse survivors, with almost 950 volunteers across London who provide specialist skills such as yoga, IT, art therapy, gardening and cooking,

Hestia is the home of UK SAYS NO MORE which brings together a diverse coalition of individuals, charities, businesses and public sector organisations to campaign for an end to domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Regional Director of Operations at Hestia, Nahar Choudhury, said: "The Covid-19 pandemic has made fleeing domestic abuse much more complex.

"Victims have been cut off from their support networks and faced greater isolation as a result.

"That's why we are delighted that our vital work with the London Borough of Wandsworth will enable residents experiencing domestic abuse to access a place of safety and specialist support."

Wandsworth Council ensures that all service users will have an up-to-date risk assessment and individual support plan with everyone who uses the services being contacted about the change.

However, domestic abuse survivors with complex issues will continue to be serviced by Refuge.

The new service comes as part of the initiatives Wandsworth Council is launching to support victims of domestic abuse.

The council is due to launch its new Violence Against Women Strategy in the new year, setting out how the council plans to tackle domestic violence and abuse, sexual violence, female genital mutilation, 'honour-based' violence, forced marriage, stalking and harassment.

From November 1 the new service can be reached on 020 3879 3544 or email [email protected] or visit hestia.org/where-we-work

Until then the contact details for existing services and information can be found on the @IssyMillett.

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