Building a lifesaving refuge for women escaping domestic abuse

Persimmon is proud to support The Independent and Refuge in their launch of a life-changing, first of its kind initiative. The Brick by Brick campaign will see The Independent’s readers coming together with businesses and celebrities to build a home for women and children fleeing domestic abuse.

With a goal of raising £300,000, the emergency appeal, which is backed by a huge list of high-profile names including Dame Helen Mirren, Sir Patrick Stewart, Olivia Colman, Dame Joanna Lumley, Andi Oliver and David Morrissey will raise funds to build an innovative refuge.

The Alnwick

The property we're constructing will be semi-detached with an open-plan kitchen/dining room, living room, WC and a private garden. It will have two double-sized bedrooms, a bathroom and abundant storage space.

Although the home doesn't have a garage, it will have a private driveway with off-road parking. It will look the same as all the surrounding homes to ensure survivors don't feel isolated from the outside world.

The home will be fitted with the highest standards of discreet security, including CCTV, window locks and an arson-proof letter box. The house will be flagged with the local police so if a woman’s abuser ever finds out where she is, help will be there fast. And with solar panels and other features, it will be sustainable and energy efficient.

Donate now!

Please give now and help us rebuild women’s lives, brick by brick.

Text BRICK to 70560 to donate £15, with every pound donated going towards building the home — and new, safe futures for women and children.

Donate online!

View the Alnwick floorplans

Who can go to a refuge and what can they help with?

Any woman experiencing domestic abuse who needs a place of safety for herself can go to a refuge, with or without children.

Refuge staff are on hand to support each resident with her individual needs. This might include providing legal advice, supporting women with safety planning, budgeting, finding a safe new home, discussing debt and welfare benefits, accessing health services, and finding nurseries and schools.

Dedicated, hard-working staff will also be able to help with local community and cultural services, as well as civil and criminal remedies, training, education and employment.

Importantly, Refuge staff will provide women with emotional support. They will not judge or tell a woman what to do. Staff give women time and space to make their own decisions.