Edinburgh Women’s Aid teams up with Harbour Homes

Harbour Homes has joined forces with Edinburgh Women’s Aid to offer vital emergency accommodation to families facing domestic abuse, marking a significant step towards supporting vulnerable individuals in need.

Since the beginning of this year, there has been a notable 38% surge in the number of women reaching out to Edinburgh Women’s Aid for assistance in light of experiencing domestic abuse. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing issue at hand and highlights the urgent need for initiatives aimed at addressing and combating domestic violence.

Furthermore, the prolonged ramifications of the pandemic have posed unique challenges in accommodating families in shared housing arrangements. Concerns surrounding infection risks, lack of personal space, and the profound impact of lockdown measures on children have prompted Edinburgh Women’s Aid to reassess their current shared accommodation options within the city.

Recognizing the importance of providing a safe haven for those in distress, Edinburgh Women’s Aid approached Harbour Homes with a proposal. In response, Harbour Homes has generously offered up to four two-bedroom flats to be utilized as emergency accommodation. Residents in these flats, leased to Edinburgh Women’s Aid, will benefit from weekly support services and the comfort of a secure and fully furnished home.

Heather Kiteley, the chief executive at Harbour Homes, expressed her heartfelt commitment to supporting the crucial work carried out by Edinburgh Women’s Aid. She stated, “In 2022-23, 90% of recorded domestic abuse incidents in Scotland occurred within the home. We deeply value the efforts of Edinburgh Women’s Aid in providing essential assistance and sanctuary to women and children impacted by domestic abuse. We stand in solidarity with Edinburgh Women’s Aid and pledge our full assistance to the individuals residing in the emergency accommodation we offer.”

In response, Karen Griffiths, the deputy chief executive officer at Edinburgh Women’s Aid, conveyed her profound gratitude to Harbour Homes for their invaluable support in providing emergency accommodation. She emphasized the significance of these flats in offering a secure and stable environment for women and their children who face the risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse, all while receiving essential support from Edinburgh Women’s Aid on their journey towards recovery.