Exeter Women's Aid

Safe Project

What is the Safe Project?

It is a confidential outreach project for girls and young women ( aged 14-25 yrs old) affected by domestic violence and abuse in Exeter, East and Mid Devon. The project is run by Exeter Women's Aid.

Who is it for?

The Safe Project is for young women who are being abused (or who have in the past been abused) by a partner, or ex-partner or who are witnessing abuse between adults in their home. Maybe you are unsure whether what you are experiencing is domestic abuse – talking with a Safe Project Worker can help you understand this.

What do you mean by abuse?

We define abuse as the misuse of power and control by one person over another; be this physical, emotional, mental, sexual, and financial or the use of isolation tactics. It could include some or all of the following; calling you names, not giving you money, hitting, kicking, punching you, stopping you from seeing friends and family, telling you what to wear, threatening you, your loved ones and pets, humiliating you, not allowing you out alone, locking you in, threatening to take your children, and many other forms of abuse.

What do we offer?

The Safe Project offers a safe space to talk and provide emotional support through telephone or one to one contact. We offer practical support, such as information on legal protection, court orders, your rights and information about keeping safe. We run drop-ins and groups. In 2008 we hope to offer a young person's Pattern Changing, which is an educational course designed to help you learn more about healthy relationships, to become more assertive and to build self esteem.

We offer support to women whether they choose to leave the abusive relationship or not. If you want to leave we can assist you in accessing support services such as refuges and other accommodation.

How do you contact us?

There are 2 workers covering different areas; one for Exeter and another for East and Mid Devon. If you would like to find out more about the project or want to get support you can call us on either 01392 667147 (Exeter area) or 01392 490583 (East and Mid Devon areas). If you leave a message, leave a phone number and a safe time for us to call you back. We do not leave messages or send texts unless you have said it is safe to do so.

What if I'm worried about a friend?

It can be worrying and upsetting if you know someone who is being abused. It is important to listen to your friend and to believe them. Don't put pressure on them to break up with their partner or judge them for staying. They are likely to be feeling very confused about their feelings and will need your support and understanding. Do encourage them to get help, show them leaflets and articles about relationship abuse and talk to them about where to get help e.g. the Safe Project and the 24 hour crisis line. Allow them to make their own decisions in their own time, but do call the police if you witness physical violence.

What if I'm a professional working with young people?

The Safe Project offers consultancy, training and advice around tackling domestic abuse with young people. If you would like to find out more or to discuss a specific case, please call us on the numbers above.