On Christmas morning this year, over 370 women and children will wake up and spend the day in one of our refuges in London as they recover from the trauma of domestic abuse. Many of these families have left their home in the face of immense danger, often with just the clothes on their backs. A recent survey by Hestia found that 9 out of 10 mums said their child’s safety was a key factor to leave their abusive relationship. More than half of the mums who took part said their child had faced physical, verbal, and emotional abuse themselves. For many of the families we support, right now is a critical point in their journey. 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. Now that these families have found safety, it is vital that they have the resources in place to begin to recover and look forward to a life beyond crisis.

When families arrive in our refuge this Christmas, we want to be able to give them the warmest welcome possible. From small things like essential toiletries or a children's welcome pack, to a tailored programme of emotional and practical support to help children heal from their trauma. Many children arrive emotionally withdrawn. Through dedicated therapeutic sessions run by our Children and Family Workers, more than two thirds of mothers say their relationship with their children has improved since arriving at Hestia’s refuge. Our recent findings show how vital interactions in the refuge are, 85% of children said they have been able to make friends while at Hestia’s refuge. These healthy relationships are formed through activities and play sessions organised and guided by our dedicated Children and Family Workers. We believe that children in our refuges deserve to be children. And at this time of year, it is their right to have fun and enjoy life affirming experiences. Your kind donation will give every family in our refuges a safe and merry Christmas.