In the run-up to International’s Women’s Day, a new partnership was launched which attempts to provide support for (mainly) women and (some) men fleeing an abusive relationship.
The ‘rail to refuge’ collaboration between Women’s Aid and Great Western Railway provides domestic abuse victims with free rail travel. This is because controlling partners and financial barriers frequently make it difficult for victims to reach a place of safety away from the place where they have been abused.
However, it is debatable if this is the best sort of support we can provide. I have asked around whether domestic abuse victims should be helped to run away; or would it be better to do more to support them in the home, even if this is also the home of their abuser?
I also had a look on Twitter to see what people think of the scheme.
I cannot tell you how many times I've been close to, or have, paid for train tickets for women in crisis and needing safety in refuge over the years. This is amazing to read.https://t.co/0yf8x1DN0V
— Amy Hewitt (@AimsHewitt) March 6, 2020
What a fab idea this is! There are already so many obstacles for victims of domestic abuse leaving without considering transport issues. However, what about male victims? Where's the much needed support to help them escape?https://t.co/GP4CxtWtMC
— LB (@SSWLetitiaB) March 5, 2020
This is simply amazing. The difference it will make to victims is enormous but also to Refuges who try to find funds to help pay these costs at the moment but often fail. Well done @GWRHelp let’s hope others follow suit #railtorefuge https://t.co/5jSaXkLHqJ
— Katy Fisher (@KatyBradshaw82) March 4, 2020
