New domestic violence refuge accommodation opens in Dublin city

New nine-unit refuge to provide accommodation for approximately 36 families per year, opened in Dublin city.

Cuan, the national Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Agency, has funded the refurbishment of the building and will support the operational costs of the new refuge.

Sonas Domestic Violence Charity, a support service for victims and survivors of domestic violence, has undertaken the refurbishment and will operate the refuge.

The nine units within the refuge can accommodate up to 62 people at any one time. The facilities also include a children’s playground and communal garden, a staff office, communal area for service users and meeting rooms.

There will be a staff team of 14 people employed by Sonas at the refuge, including six support workers, two children support workers, four night-support workers, a service manager and a team leader.

In addition to direct emergency accommodation provision, Sonas provides a range of services and support interventions. These services will also expand through the provision of supports from the new refuge. The range of supports and interventions include, outreach, safety planning, court accompaniment, counselling, information and advice, advocacy and referral onwards.