Did you know domestic abuse is a major factor in homelessness in our community?
- Kent has the highest percentage of women rough sleepers within the South East
- 32% of homeless women say domestic abuse contributed to their homelessness
- 52% of domestic abuse survivors need support to help stay in their home or move to new accommodation
This is why Rising Sun is excited to introduce Project Liberty Accommodation, an innovative service providing accommodation for 16 to 24 year old girls who are pregnant and at risk of abuse, exploitation and homelessness.
The young women we will work with are pregnant, with no family support, and a history of domestic abuse. Their chaotic family situations result in homelessness and increased vulnerability to abuse. In our experience, once homeless, young women also face risk of school/societal disengagement, mental health issues, and drug/alcohol misuse. Early intervention is key to breaking this cycle.
As well as a safe and secure home, Project Liberty Accommodation will help young women develop the skills they need to lead independent lives and find long term homes for themselves and their children. No other service like Project Liberty Accommodation exists locally, and this group of vulnerable young women is at high risk of abuse, exacerbated by COVID 19 lockdown restrictions.
Learn more about our new vital housing project supporting vulnerable young women
This big development was made possible by us merging with another local charity and acquiring a property. However, the property was in desperate need of renovation.
What your support has achieved
Your generous support has helped refurbish accommodation for five young women and their children at a time. Including:
- Creating and furnishing five large bedrooms capable of housing each young woman and her child
- Adding two shared upstairs bathrooms
- Renovating the kitchen area and communal living areas
- Updating the downstairs space to include a training room for group workshops for both residents and other young women being supported by Rising Sun.
By staying at Project Liberty Accommodation, the lives, aspirations and futures of vulnerable young women will be changed. They will leave with improved independent living skills and parenting confidence; increased ability to recognise the signs of abusive relationships; and increased life aspirations.
Although refurbishments are complete we still rely on your support to fund the day to day running of this house and other Rising Sun projects. If you are able please make a donation today to help young women create the life they and their children deserve.
If you would like to organise your own fundraising check out our fundraising page for tips or contact Judith on 01227 452852.
Making a referral
If you or someone you know would benefit from this service, any organisation can refer a young woman and we also accept self-referrals. For more details about the service and to make a referral click here