Is this like a retreat??

Hey :) There's a bit of info on here that might help. I think they usually give you your own room but you share facilities. The idea is supposed to be that you can mix with others in the communal areas if you want to, but you have a private place as well. Some refuges might be different, but this is what I have read in most of the places I have looked for information about what you're asking. Good luck with this new start, congrats on making it, and hope it will bring you happiness!! Take care, RB XX

http://www.womensaid.org.uk/domestic-violence-survivors-handbook.asp?section=000100010008000100320003

I was in one (here in Canada) for 21 days (the max stay).

it was sparkling clean. we had our own room (one single bed for me, and bunks for the kids).

it had it's own bathroom, which was one of the nicest bathrooms I've EVER been in in my life! like luxury hotel! I took A LOT of baths!

it had a tv, and cable.

the beds were comfy, the pillows SUCKED. but really, I was happy with the room.

there were several common areas downstairs-living room with a big tv, a quiet room with one computer. a teen room in the basement that had air hockey, and a WII. a little kids daycare type place-that was staffed with volunteers who would watch your child for you if you had court, or needed to have a nap, or had to go do something.

then,there was the cafeteria, which is where most people hung out. one wall was a bank of computers-the kids kind of hogged them, but generally, you'd find time to get on..

the food was AWFUL!!!! those cooks were the worst EVER! they served 3 meals per day, and there were always trays of cut fruit and stuff left out for snacks.

there was also a mini kitchen, where you could make tea and coffee and toast and stuff...

I really loved the experience. I liked all of the staff (there were always counselors around to talk to you if you needed it) and I liked most of the women. I was worried that they'd all be really rough, and there were a few like that-but everyone was sweet, and vulnerable, and it was a lot like being on DS, without a lot of the wisdom of this place.

good luck on going into the shelter.

it was the best move I EVER made.

Ok, so I'm not as well versed in English dialects as I thought. LOL Refuge = shelter.....got it. Don't mind me. I will learn eventually!

Nothing to be scared of, NewStart4me. I entered a refuge (shelter) as a last resort and it was the best thing I could've done.

Refuges differ from one area to another, but the one I was in comprised of apartments shared by 2 people (sometimes one of the people having a larger room with children sharing with them). Each having their own room and sharing a kitchen, bathroom and (sometimes) a sitting room. There was 24 hour support, with weekly sessions with a support worker. The support worker, among other things, assisted with finding new doctors (in the case where a resident was new to the area), assisting with benefits, referrals to solicitors/therapists (often doing pro bono work) and general emotional support. The support worker will also help you to look at your options regarding accommodation when it is time for you to move on.

Refuges attract people from all walks of life (drug and alcohol issues), and it can be prudent to keep yourself to yourself until you get to know someone, as some people can be very damaged and you are there to heal yourself, not others.

If you would like any more info, please PM and I'll be happy to help.

Take care