What is
Safe Arbour?

Safe Arbour is trauma-informed education and support group, based in the UK, for women and their children age 0-5 who have experienced domestic abuse, and do not currently live with the abuser.

Safe Arbour meets once a week for 12 weeks during term time.  The programme also includes a group outing during half term.

We recognise that many of the impacts of domestic abuse remain even after families leave the abuser, and the isolation, shame, and strain on the mother-child relationship can continue to reinforce each other and create a vicious cycle that time alone is unlikely to heal. The aftermath of domestic abuse is like a snake bite, it’s not enough to get rid of the snake, an antidote is necessary to rid the family system of the toxins.

Safe Arbour disrupts this vicious cycle by removing the barriers women with small children experience when they try to get help, and brings families together in a trauma informed environment. We support women and children to bond with each other and separate from each other, and help them connect with the strengths and skills they already posess.

Safe Arbour recognises that what makes each person unique makes them uniquely resilient, and strives to be an anti-discriminatory organisation.

Safe Arbour creates opportunities for mothers and children to strengthen their bonds, relax, and enjoy each other, as well as learn how to separate and reunite with each other.

Women who have completed the programme report an increase in self-esteem and improved relationships with their children. Children see a 25% reduction in concerns around social emotional development and communication skills, on average.

You can find their quotes about the programme and the results of an independent evaluation in the impact section.