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The Sanctuary Project

Quick Exit Button Helping to make it possible for people who experience domestic abuse, harassment, stalking & other personal offences remain in their own home and feel safe.

Basildon Domestic Abuse Panel - Sanctuary Project
 Many people who experience domestic abuse, harassment, stalking & other personal offences are reluctant to leave their home and support networks following incidents perpetrated against them. Moving is a big upheaval and not always practical due to disabilities, children, education, employment, support networks etc.

Who is eligible for the Sanctuary project?

Basildon Borough Council's sanctuary project is a survivor-centred initiative which aims to protect client's who have experienced domestic abuse, harassment and/or neighbourhood nuisance to enable them to reside safely in their home. We consider referrals from all tenure types - social housing, owner occupier and private renters. These referrals can be made by any professionals or the clients themselves.

What does the Sanctuary Scheme do?

There is no cost to the client for utilising the sanctuary scheme. Once a referral is made, Basildon Council will contact the referrer and the client to discuss the referral and make enquiries with other agencies such as Essex Police. Once agreed, the council's contractor will contact the client to arrange for works to be carried out as soon as practicable.

When a referral is agreed, the council utilises specialist contractors to attend the home with a view to upgrade or change locks, add alarms or provide other specialist security measures where suitable for the property. This allows for greater property security, peace of mind, prevents homelessness & reduces repeat victimisation.

Sanctuary Scheme criteria

  • The perpetrator does not reside at the property or have a legal right to reside at the property.
  • The property is available for the client's continued occupation.
  • Permission is granted by the Landlord. Some of our local housing associations implement their own sanctuary/security measures, so it may be prudent to contact your social landlord at the first opportunity.
  • Without the works, the client is at risk of experiencing further abuse or incidents, and homelessness.

Referrals to the Sanctuary project

For more information or to discuss referrals, please contact Basildon Council Domestic Abuse Team: