Avenues is a non-judgemental domestic violence support project, founded in 1996 by a group of women who recognised through consultation with local women, the need for services. Avenues quickly developed with a small amount of funding from the local authority providing support and practical help to women who were experiencing or who had experienced domestic violence at some time in their lives. In 1998, the project secured funding from the National Lotteries Charity Board to further develop the services a Co-ordinator and Counsellor were appointed to enhance the work being carried out by the support worker.

The aims of the service are to:

• Provide a full time safe support project for women to meet the needs and expectation of women surviving domestic violence including effective and supportive links with other service providers and opportunities through training and groupwork for the personal development of service users.
• Provide counselling for women who have experienced or are experiencing domestic violence.
• Provide volunteering opportunities within the project.
• Provide clear and accurate information on support services for women and their children.

Referral Process

If you or someone you know needs help and support around the issues of domestic violence then please contact the project on 0191 2005887. The usual referral process is that an initial appointment will be made with one of the workers who will come and see you at your home (if it is safe to do so), bring you to the project or meet you anywhere you feel safe and comfortable to meet. The worker will go through the services and help we can offer you and let you know the drop in times if you wish to attend these sessions.

If you would like to refer to the project please complete the short referral form and someone will be in touch with you shortly.