Domestic violence includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, psychological abuse, and abuse to property and pets. Exposure to this form of violence has considerable potential to be perceived as life-threatening by those victimized and can leave them with a sense of vulnerability, helplessness, and in extreme cases, horror.

Women and children fleeing domestic violence are vulnerable. As well as a roof over their heads, they need time and guidance for the future.

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At Tweed Shire Women’s Refuge we understand that every woman and child experiencing domestic violence has different needs ­ and yet there is no single package of services to meet those needs, no 'one size fits all'. Instead our Refuge offers a range of services which increases women's choices and gives them access to professional support whatever their situation.

Our Refuge offers women emergency accommodation and the time and space to make decisions about their future.

Our Outreach Services support women to move from refuge into a new community

Our staff are experienced at dealing with sensitive and difficult situations of domestic violence and have a thorough understanding of the issues involved. Their approach is empathetic, supportive and professional. They recognise that women accessing our service have taken a very courageous step.

New Clients.

When a new client arrives at our refuge, a Support Worker will talk to her about her experiences and provide comfort. The first few days of a resident’s stay are spent building trust and getting to know each other, while the woman and her children settle in.

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Children

Children may exhibit a wide range of reactions to exposure to violence in their home and our Child Support Workers are there to guide and support them through this turbulent time in their lives.

You can download the Welcome Kit to familiarise yourself with many of the processes of entering the Tweed SHire Women's Service refuge.