Background

More than a quarter of a century ago, two doctors and their wives
(Dr Basil and Enid Levy; Dr Cyril and Pat Taylor) were becoming increasingly concerned over the injuries sustained by women at the
hands of their violent partners. Worse still was the effect it was having on the children, who more often than not witnessed the violent arguments
and brutal attacks.

They (the Trustees), decided it was time to take a stand against the violence and by obtaining premises for low rent and enlisting help from friends, colleagues and other organisations such as Save the Children
and Social Services Grant Aid, the Refuge was born.

The refuge was originally intended for just a few families, but by word of mouth others arrived on the doorstep and nobody was ever turned away.
In the end the adjoining building was also rented, enabling more families
to seek the safety and sanctuary provided by the Refuge.

It soon became clear that even with the two buildings, it still didn't provide enough accommodation for those seeking help, the Trustees once again called upon friends, colleagues and organisations, persuading Princes Park Housing Co-operative into funding the first purpose built Refuge in
the country; which opened its doors in July 1984.

A number of residents who were re-housed, kept in contact with the Refuge by volunteering their services and by talking to distressed families and advising them that they could move on with their lives and didn't have to put up with the violence.

The Refuge has moved on over the years, and has even changed ownership to Liverpool Housing Trust. Long gone are the shared rooms and mattresses on the floor. Families now have their own bedroom with all mod cons, and plenty of activities for the children.

It is thanks to the dedication and compassion of those four Trustees, organisations, residents, staff and volunteers both past and present who back in 1973, cared enough about the women and children in violent and abusive relationships, and who persevered to establish the Refuge.