Ever year, Hestia supports more than 4,000 children and families who have experienced domestic abuse. Before fleeing, many of the children have lived lives in constant fear, with Hestia data suggesting that more than half experienced abuse directly themselves. When fleeing to one of our refuges, adapting can be difficult. Children often have to leave behind their friends, pets, and toys. Our data also indicates that many of the children in our refuges have never had the chance to ride a bike or even learn to play pass the parcel. A third have never been to the zoo, and four in ten have never been to the seaside. Their time in Hestia’s refuges is a chance to heal but also to reclaim their childhood, have fun, and create healthy, happy memories.

We know that fleeing to a refuge can be difficult for children, but it can also be a place for them to be free of fear. A recent Hestia survey found that 9 in 10 children feel happy at our refuges. Hestia’s summer play scheme helps to make this happen. The scheme provides 6 weeks of activities and outings, from beach days to museum trips, giving children the chance to be children again. Hestia will provide physical and mental stimulation throughout the school holiday, giving them the all-important stories to share in September. For the first time, this summer programme will also include access to animal therapy. From events with specialist animal therapy organisations to friendly pet visits in the refuges, this will accompany core trauma-informed support. Your support makes this happen.