Welcome to episode two of this season of ‘In a Mother’s Mind’! This podcast series aims to raise awareness about the experiences and needs of women who have had children removed from their care. It was created by a group of four Pause graduates, who have experience of having children removed from their care. 

We know from government figures that domestic abuse is one of the leading causes of homelessness amongst women, and housing is the primary barrier for women attempting to leave abusers. This is even more complex when children are involved. In this episode, we talk to Vicky Jennings, who is a Senior Practitioner for BCHA’s women’s refuge in Plymouth, about some of the challenges women and children face when fleeing domestic abuse, as well as some housing solutions that are available. We’ll then delve deeper into the issue of domestic abuse by talking to barrister Rachel Cooper, from Coram Chambers. We’ll get a legal perspective on what’s being done to make the family courts more trauma-informed and what more needs to be done.  

If you’re experiencing – or are at risk of domestic abuse – you can ask your local council for support finding another place to live. You can find out more information on the Shelter website. You can also call the free National Domestic Abuse Helpline if you need help finding a refuge space.  

When talking about support services available in Plymouth, Vicky mentions the local charity Trevi and their Sunflower Centre, Plymouth’s only women’s centre, providing a safe hub for connection and hope. 

Vicky also mentions how pets can be an additional barrier to leaving an abusive relationship, as not all emergency accommodation accept animals. You can find out about national services that could help on the Refuge website. If you live in London and need access to an animal refuge for your pet, you can contact the charity Mayhew.    

Hosted by Helena, a woman with experience of the Pause Programme   
Interviews by Heidi and Helena, women with experience of the Pause Programme   
Produced by Fi Gilligan and Karina Graham 
Music by Ben Jacob  
Editing by Will Jacob  

To find out more about Pause, visit: pause.org.uk