North Yorkshire Council enhances housing support for domestic abuse survivors
Specialist roles created to aid victims in finding safe accommodation
A domestic abuse survivor in North Yorkshire has expressed gratitude for the council's support in aiding her and her child to find safety and rebuild their lives.
She is sharing her story as North Yorkshire Council says it is strengthening housing support for victims of domestic abuse, providing safe and stable accommodation across the county.
Sophia Ritzema explains: “So 8 years ago, I made the brave decision to flee from a high domestic violent marriage with my then 8-year-old daughter. It got to the point where I couldn't be in that environment anymore.”
"There is support out there. When you are going through a situation like that, you feel like you're on your own. You don't know who to turn to, and you're really scared.”
“I am beyond grateful for having been supported by North Yorkshire Council, which provided me and my daughter with the support to get into secure housing.”
“Domestic abuse should not be tolerated at all. It's not acceptable. Women deserve a right to live freely.”
“I don't want any woman or anyone experiencing abuse to feel like they have to tolerate it and that's all they have to live with. They can get out of this.”
"If I could, if I ever had the opportunity to meet the housing support worker who helped me, I would be so wanting to give her a massive hug and thank her.”
The initiative is part of a programme led by the community safety team and aligns with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, supported by nearly £600,000 of government funding through the Domestic Abuse Grant.
Cllr Heather Phillips, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for corporate services, highlighted the importance of bolstering housing offers: “By strengthening our housing offer, we are giving victims and survivors greater choice, quicker access to support, and safer places to live.”
The council has introduced specialist roles, including two domestic abuse housing coordinators and four housing practitioners, who work with commissioned service IDAS to provide frontline support.
Kelly Jefferson, domestic abuse housing coordinator, emphasised the comprehensive approach: “This work is about far more than policy – it’s about supporting people at their most vulnerable moments.”
North Yorkshire Council’s efforts also include training staff as domestic abuse champions, enhancing awareness among frontline teams.
Where to get support
•https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/community-and-volunteering/community-safety/domestic-abuse
• IDAS or call 0300 110 110
• Details of the Women's Alliance Flourish Service: [email protected]