Each year, Hestia offers safety and stability to thousands of women escaping domestic abuse across London and the South East.  

Many seek sanctuary in our domestic abuse refuges - typically for 6–9 months - a short but critical window of time, during which they are beginning the difficult process of rebuilding their sense of self, their confidence, and hope for the future.

Many are also rediscovering who they are after experiencing years of control and trauma. What brings me joy? How do I want to spend my time? How can I get back to the career I once loved? Suddenly, these questions begin to feel possible again.  

About Be You 

Be You is Hestia’s transformative new programme that helps around 300 women each year to discover new friendships, community, purpose, and joy on their journey to recovery from the trauma of domestic abuse.

Through a regular programme of uplifting and empowering activities and workshops - co-created by survivors and supported by volunteers – women can learn new skills, explore pathways into education, training, and employment, rebuild their confidence and happiness, and remember who they are beyond the abuse they have experienced.

Your support can make this possible 

By donating to Be You, you can help women to rediscover their strength and begin to build new futures for themselves. Your gift will support women to:

• Rebuild their independence, confidence, and self-esteem
• Feel hopeful and optimistic about the future
• Become equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue their goals
• Find friendship, connection, and community

“I am thinking about getting back into work again.” 

Your generosity enables more women to reach life-changing moments like this. 
Saleena (name changed) told us: 

“I have been so alone with my thoughts… but now I am attending classes and groups. I’ve made friends, my English is getting better, and I am thinking about getting back into work again. Thank you.”