Support and services from Refuge

Emotional and practical support to children and young people aged 5-17 who have been affected by domestic abuse

Refuge's Children and Young Person's (CYP) team provides emotional and practical support to children and young people aged 5-17 who have been affected by domestic abuse. 

This may include witnessing abuse at home, experiencing abuse themselves, being in an abusive relationship, or being impacted by honour-base violence or child sexual exploitation. 

Our service is completely consent-based and led by the young person. We're not a counselling service, but we offer a safe, confidential space where children and young people can explore their experiences and feelings at their own pace. 

Sessions are tailored to each individual and may focus on areas such as understanding domestic abuse, managing emotions, building confidence, healthy relationships, and creating safety plans. 

We can meet young people in person - either at school or in community spaces such as libraries - or online via Microsoft Teams. 

For those under 16, we require the safe parent's consent to work with them.

Children and young people must also be living in Barking and Dagenham to access support. 

There's no fixed time limit on our support. We recognise that building trust takes time, and we aim to provide ongoing, person-centred help that meets each young person's needs. 

Our service is open to all genders, free and confidential. Referrals can be made by professionals or directly by young people and their families. 

For referrals, advice, or further information, please contact us at: 

BDAdvocacy@refuge.org.uk.

0300 456 0174