Data reveals a shocking lack of accessible refuge spaces for women with disabilities escaping domestic abuse in the UK
London: Anna (not her real name) faced years of domestic abuse from her husband. She recalls a terrifying moment when he threw her across the room while she was seven months pregnant. He even tracked her phone and threatened to share indecent photos with her family.
After their divorce, Anna moved in with her parents. But when she refused to remarry, her father turned emotionally abusive and kicked her and her two kids out.
In the UK, there’s a serious shortage of refuge spaces and temporary housing. This makes it tough for local authorities to help families escaping domestic abuse, especially women with disabilities like Anna.
Recent data from Women’s Aid shows that less than 1% of refuge vacancies in the UK are suitable for wheelchair users. Only 1.8% can accommodate women with limited mobility.
Anna struggles with mobility issues and breathing problems. The temporary accommodation her local council provided is far from her support network, including friends, her doctor, and her kids’ school.
“Getting my kids to school is a challenge. It takes me two-and-a-half hours, and I have to stop frequently because of my breathing,” she shared. “I just stay in the area all day; it’s exhausting and takes away my independence.”
Disabled women are more than twice as likely to experience domestic abuse compared to their non-disabled counterparts, according to the latest Office for National Statistics figures. Their vulnerability makes it easier for abusers to control them, and many refuge spaces can’t meet their physical needs.
Most refuge accommodations are outdated and have staircases, which is a huge barrier. Domestic abuse charities are urging for more funding to create accessible spaces.
Angie Airlie, chief executive of Stay Safe East, emphasized the need for government funding to build disabled-friendly temporary accommodations in every borough. “No one should be locked out of safety because of a disability,” she said.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that every domestic abuse victim deserves care, including those with disabilities. They’ve committed an extra £30 million to support survivors in safe accommodations.
If you or someone you know is facing abuse, there are resources available to help. The National Domestic Violence Helpline is available at 0808 2000 247, and Women’s Aid offers support for those experiencing tech abuse.
