Supporting survivors of domestic abuse

️ Safe Steps – Support for Survivors of Domestic Abuse

Serving Southend-on-Sea, Thurrock and across Essex

Safe Steps is a specialist support provider helping women, men, children, and young people rebuild their lives after domestic abuse. Our services are delivered from the Dove Centre and across the local community, with over 40 years of experience inherited from Southend Women’s Aid and SOS Domestic Abuse Projects.

Refuge & Safe Accommodation

1. Core Refuge

• Secure, supported living for women and children escaping domestic abuse.

• Rooms with bed, sink, clean linen. Some have private showers.

• Shared kitchens, bathrooms, and communal areas.

• Emotional and practical support from trained staff.

2. Dispersed Accommodation

• Safe flats in the community.

• Available to a wider demographic including single men and survivors with complex needs.

• Fully private with kitchen and bathroom.

What Happens When You Arrive?

• Arrive safely — even with few or no belongings.

• We can provide essentials: clothing, toiletries, food, nappies, toys, school uniforms.

• Assigned a key worker to help you settle in and get the support you need.

• Support with personal item retrieval if needed.

Practical Help & Next Steps

Your key worker will support you with:

• Housing benefit applications

• Registering with a GP, dentist, and schools

• Legal support and benefit entitlements

• Immigration support

• Police reporting — only if you choose

You’ll sign a licence agreement and client contract when you move in.