It’s been three years since the Barnet Homes Domestic Violence Refuge officially announced its arrival with a launch attended by the Mayor of Barnet.

For Minerva House’s third anniversary, the dv refuge got a first time visit from The Barnet Group’s Chief Executive Tim Mulvenna.

The Domestic Violence Refuge has helped 52 women leave abusive situations, find support and eventually have the chance at having a fresh start, free of fear of violence.

Given that two women are killed by their partner or ex-partner every week, the role of our domestic violence services and support is absolutely vital. The One-Stop-Shop provides specialist advice, not too easy to find elsewhere in the borough, particularly on emerging issues such as honour-based violence and cyber-crime.

This week, colleagues from Barnet Homes, Solace (who manage the refuge on our behalf) and our generous contractor, R Bensons, gathered together to celebrate the third anniversary of the DV Refuge and OSS with a special lunch.

Tim Mulvenna voiced his appreciation of all the efforts made by Barnet Homes colleagues,its  contractors and other partners to keep the service running efficiently and with compassion. 

Erika Rosafio, refuge worker from Solace, spoke about some of the work they do with residents to help them move on with their lives. There is counselling, therapy and family support, to fit into four months – as that is the maximum length of time women can stay at Minerva House.

Congratulations on the third anniversary of the DV Refuge and OSS – long may they continue.

In 2018 Barnet Homes signed the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) to Make a Stand as a housing organisation committed to tackling domestic violence.