The image is of a cutout wooden house with the sunset behind it. Housing options for people in Guildford

We’re Here to Help

Experiencing domestic abuse can turn your whole world upside down – and that includes where you live and whether you feel safe at home. Whether you’re thinking about leaving, have already left, or are trying to stay safely in your home, we’re here to help. We’ll listen without judgement, explain your options, and support you to make the decisions that are right for you.

Contact us to talk confidentially about your housing and safety on 01483898884 or email us on swr@swsda.org.uk

If You Need to Leave

If remaining at home isn’t safe or possible, we can help you explore alternative options, such as:

  • Emergency accommodation or refuge spaces

  • Temporary housing with friends or family

  • Support with applying for housing through the local council

  • Planning a safe exit, including what to take with you and where you can go

We’ll work with you to create a personalised safety and housing plan that prioritises your needs and those of your children.

Staying Safe at Home: The Sanctuary Scheme

It may be possible to remain safely in your own home with additional security in place. The Sanctuary Scheme offers practical safety measures for people who have experienced domestic abuse and want to stay in their property.

Depending on your needs, this might include:

  • Changing locks or adding extra door/window security

  • Installing a safe room within your home

  • Providing mobile phones or phone credit for emergencies

A police Designing Out Crime Officer and a Fire & Rescue Risk Manager will carry out a security assessment to ensure the right steps are taken for your safety. While police complete the assessment, you do not have to report the abuse to access this scheme.

We can support you in accessing the Sanctuary Scheme and guide you through every step. The scheme is delivered locally in partnership with:

  • Surrey Police

  • Surrey Fire & Rescue Service

  • Guildford Borough Council

  • Waverley Borough Council

Please get in touch with us if you’d like to find out more about how the scheme works and whether it’s the right option for you at 01483898884.

Local Housing Contacts

 

Guildford Borough Council
📞 01483 505050
🌐 www.guildford.gov.uk/housing

Waverley Borough Council
📞 01483 523333
🌐 www.waverley.gov.uk/housing

If you are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse, contact your local authority’s housing department as soon as possible for advice and support.

Additional Support

Shelter – Free, expert housing advice
📞 0808 800 4444
🌐 www.shelter.org.uk