The South West Refuge is committed to the provision of excellent service to lone women and women with children escaping domestic/family violence. Holistic, client- focused service provision adheres to the principles of best practice, and strives to empower women through fostering self determination. Deep commitment to the belief that every person is entitled to equality, respect and dignity underpins every aspect of service delivery.

The South West Refuge acknowledges the oppression of women which is intrinsic to domestic/family violence, as well as the power imbalances which occur in both their personal and community relationships. Our service strives to improve the status of women and children by providing information around power issues, as well as through advocacy and enhancing community awareness. In these and all other aspects of service, there is respect for and sensitivity regarding difference whether this is due to economic circumstance, gender, ethnicity or sexual preference.

The South West Refuge acknowledges the deeply harmful effects of domestic/family violence on children and is committed to the ideal of provision of services to children in the refuge as clients in their own right. Support for mothers through the provision of childcare and other child related services is regarded as an essential component of working with women in the refuge.

Our service embraces the concept of a multicultural and diverse society and welcomes all women and their children from across the full range of backgrounds. We aim to create a trusting and supportive environment where women and children feel physically and emotionally safe to talk about their experiences and can trust implicitly that their confidentiality and privacy will be respected.