8 April 2026

On 20 March, we welcomed Natasha Irons MP to one of our domestic abuse refuges in Croydon, a safe, purpose-built service for single women or mothers and their children escaping abuse.

From left to right: Naomi Neiland (Hestia), Natasha Irons (MP), Georgina Crowley (Hestia) and Pauline Powell (Hestia)

During her visit, she met the refuge team and residents, and toured the playroom, communal living space (where an arts and crafts session was underway), garden, and the refuge’s accessible bedroom (1). This is one of the few refuges in the country with an accessible room.

Last year, Hestia supported over 3,100 people recovering from domestic abuse. We now provide 26 refuges across eight London boroughs, alongside community-based support and prevention initiatives, including Safe Spaces in high street pharmacies and banks nationwide.

Natasha Irons (MP) talking to Pauline Powell (Hestia)

In Croydon, Hestia has delivered refuge services for over a decade. Our three local refuges offer trauma-informed support, including one-to-one key work and guidance on domestic abuse. Residents also access support groups, social activities, housing advice, financial and debt support, health and legal guidance, and education. A dedicated Children and Family Worker helps families recover and rebuild their lives together.

Hestia also provides community-based support (known as floating support) in Croydon, offering practical and emotional support for women experiencing domestic abuse, enabling them to live safely in the community.

Commenting on her visit, Ms Irons said: “It was a pleasure to visit Hestia and meet the incredible team making such a difference in supporting women and children to rebuild their lives after domestic abuse. Hestia’s work goes beyond the refuge, providing vital community‑based support and practical help that enables survivors to regain stability and move forward with confidence.

Thank you to everyone from Hestia for everything you do to support families to rebuild their lives." 

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1. Women's Aid estimates that fewer than 1% of UK refuge vacancies are suitable for wheelchair users, and only 1.8% can accommodate women with limited mobility.

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