Lambeth Sanctuary Scheme

 “This is a brilliant service and I now have peace of mind that my ex partner would not easily be able to enter my property or get at me once I am in my home. I feel significantly less anxious and your staff were able to empathise with my domestic violence past and offered a fast, efficient and professional service. Thank you!” (comment from a sanctuary scheme user)

Supporting you to stay safe in your own home

The Lambeth Sanctuary Scheme, provided in partnership with Victim Support, aims to help individuals affected by domestic violence to remain safe in their home.

The Sanctuary Scheme provides increased home security and support including: 

• a safe room with maximum security to be retreated to in the event of an incident or emergency if required
• maximum strength fire resistant doors, door frames and windows
• reinforced locks and grilles on windows and balconies
• high priority link to police, fire and ambulance services
• approved carpenters to carry out security works with specialist training in dealing with individuals affected by domestic violence
• dedicated support from a member of the Floating Support Domestic Violence Team.

Who is the Sanctuary Scheme for?

The Sanctuary Scheme is available to individuals living in Lambeth that are affected by domestic violence where the perpetrator does not live in the property.

Individuals that may be eligible for the scheme include:

• individuals that have been rehoused by Lambeth council as a result of domestic violence
• individuals who need reassurance where perpetrators are due for release from prison
• a primary relative of a person affected by domestic violence.

If you are living in private rented accommodation we will need permission from your landlord to carry out required work.

If you are affected by domestic violence or want more information and advice about the Sanctuary Scheme, please contact a Sanctuary Scheme caseworker on 020 7820 0007 or 020 7820 0008. You can also send an email to lambeth.sanctuary@vslondon.org 

Read Simone's story

What's the next step?

A Sanctuary scheme caseworker will make an appointment with you to assess whether the scheme is right for you. If the scheme is suitable, a home appointment will be made in order for the required works and security measures to be assessed and a date agreed for the work to be completed.