Adult Services

Safe Housing

 

Finding safety and rebuilding your life after abuse starts with having somewhere safe and secure to call home. This is why we have safe accommodation and supported accommodation properties across East Kent, North Kent and Medway for individuals and families escaping domestic abuse.

Our accommodation includes shared living spaces as well as private flats and houses across the local area, which means we can accommodate non-binary people, trans people, men and pets, as well as women and children who make up the majority of those we support.

When you move into one of our homes, we focus on wellbeing, empowerment, and lasting recovery. It’s a wraparound service, so it’s more than just a roof over someone’s head.

No matter your situation, our team is here to make sure you feel safe and to give you practical guidance, and ongoing support so you can move forward with confidence and dignity.

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“Without Oasis I don’t think I could have left safely. Having a self‑contained home meant my child and I could settle quickly, with privacy and less anxiety. The team helped us plan safely and rebuild towards independence.”

Ellen

Areas where we have safe homes

kent map

Medway

We have 10 private flats of varying sizes for individuals and families across Medway

North Kent

We have two shared properties for women aged 18-24 who are at risk of homelessness

East Kent

We have 18 private flats of varying sizes for individuals and families across East Kent

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safe homes like?

Our safe homes are fully furnished, welcoming spaces designed to give you safety, stability and breathing room while you recover from abuse. We have a mix of shared accommodation, private flats and family-sized properties across East Kent, Medway and North Kent. 

All of our accommodations include essential furniture, white goods and bedding, and are maintained to a high standard. Some properties have communal areas or outdoor spaces, and some can accommodate children and pets.  

Wherever you stay, you’ll have access to support workers who are available to offer advise on finance and housing, benefits, gaining employment or voluntary work, cooking skills, general life skills and mental health support. 

Is it free to stay in a safe home?

Our safe homes aren’t free to stay in, but rent is usually covered through housing benefit. If you’re working, you may need to pay a small top-up payment, depending on your income. 

Some accommodations have a service charge that cover utilities and WiFi, and in others the residents are responsible for paying their bills.

Our team will support you with the application and any entitlement checks. 

How long can I stay in a safe home?

How long you might stay depends on your own individual needs and circumstance – there is no fixed time limit.

Our safe homes provide short term security while long term plans are being put in place. For some people this may take a few months; for others it can take longer.

What happens when I move on?

We understand that moving on can feel like a big step, so we will continue to support you after you leave. Depending on the service and your circumstances, this support can last between one and three months and can include help with: 

  • Setting up your new home 
  • Sorting bills, meter readings and utilities 
  • Applying for and accessing benefits 
How can I make a referral for a safe home?

Most referrals come to us through the local council, usually via a Domestic Abuse Housing Officer or the Housing Team. 

In some areas, you can also self-refer via the helpline. If you’re not sure where to start, you can contact us and we’ll talk you through the process and help you understand your options.

Contact us

The Domestic Abuse Act

If you’re fleeing domestic abuse, you have legal rights around housing. Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, local authorities in England have a duty to provide support to eligible survivors living in safe accommodation, and a duty to help those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness as a result of domestic abuse. You don’t have to have somewhere to go before you reach out for help.

If you’re not ready to approach your local council directly, or you’re not sure where to start, you can contact us or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline to understand your options and plan your next steps safely:

  • The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Refuge) is free, confidential and available 24/7: 0808 2000 247
  • Oasis can help you think through your situation before you take any formal steps
Your housing rights Contact us