Since January this year, there has been a 38% increase on the previous year of women seeking help from Edinburgh Women’s Aid due to experiencing domestic abuse.

At the same time, the longer-term impact of the pandemic has made accommodating families in shared homes more challenging. Fear of infection, lack of personal space and the impact of lockdown on children have prompted Edinburgh Women’s Aid to review their current shared accommodation options within the city.

Edinburgh Women’s Aid approached Harbour Homes which is providing up to four two-bedroom flats to be used as emergency accommodation. Those living in the flats leased to Edinburgh Women’s Aid will receive weekly support and a safe and furnished home.

Heather Kiteley, chief executive at Harbour Homes, said: “In 2022-23, 90% of recorded domestic abuse incidents in Scotland took place inside the home. We care deeply about the work Edinburgh Women’s Aid are doing to provide support and refuge to women and children affected by domestic abuse. We extend our support to Edinburgh Women’s Aid and will do all we can to assist those living in the emergency accommodation we provide.”

Karen Griffiths, deputy chief executive officer at Edinburgh Women’s Aid, added: “We are incredibly thankful to Harbour Homes for their support in leasing this emergency accommodation to us. The flats will provide a safe and stable environment for women and any accompanying children who are at risk of homelessness because of Domestic Abuse, whilst they are supported by Edinburgh Women’s Aid to recover.”