Wolverhampton City Council has agreed to a substantial £2.5 million contract with The Haven Wolverhampton, a charity described as 'life-saving' for its work supporting victims of domestic abuse. The charity has been designated as the lead local provider of domestic abuse support services for women and children, with new three-year minimum contracts awarded by the council. This includes the reinstatement of an important scheme known as the 'Sanctuary Scheme,' which aims to improve security measures for victims, such as CCTV and fireproof letterboxes, to help them remain safe in their own homes.
Continued Support and New Services
The new contracts will enable The Haven to continue offering safe accommodation and community support services to women and children. Additionally, the charity has been awarded multiple newly commissioned services. Laura Rogers, CEO of The Haven Wolverhampton, expressed her pride in the achievement, stating: "We rely heavily on local authority funding and other essential fundraising to provide vital and life-saving support to victims and survivors of domestic abuse. When challenging those who choose to abuse, it is crucial that services and partners stand together, united."
She added: "Being recommissioned by the City of Wolverhampton Council to provide our existing safe accommodation and community service provisions is something special, but to also be part of their new commission of the Sanctuary Scheme, complex needs services, and outreach services for children in our communities is a true privilege. What a moment for our city, and for the women and children who so desperately need our support."
Collaboration with Other Specialists
Specialist services such as Barnardo's, the Refugee and Migrant Centre, and Black Country Women's Aid are also expected to come on board as part of the contract. For the first time, continued funding for children has been secured not only for The Haven but also for the Community Outreach service. The Haven's contract with the council is set to begin in July 2026, with a potential extension of up to seven years and a total award of nearly £6 million.
Rogers concluded: "We are so looking forward to the future, standing firm with our community and proud of our continued legacy of being Wolverhampton's lead domestic abuse services provider for more than 50 years. This milestone means we can continue our commitment to supporting victims and survivors to be seen, heard, and safe – and for that, we are honoured."
