VALERIE'S LAW Black women's Short Stay Refuge

 
On our journey began with the untimely murder of Valerie Forde and baby Real-Jahzara.  After the court case, we were inundated with calls from black women who have been unsupported in their quest to get help when experiencing domestic abuse.

Unfortunately, when they do get assistance, many black women are placed in rural or city areas where there is little understanding of the cultural needs, diets and essential products in terms of hair (including Rastafarian women with locs) and food. They are often placed in spaces where they do not see themselves reflected. 

The idea behind our specialist refuge,  is that single women and women with children can be housed for anything between 2 days and 4 weeks while alternative adequate safe space is found or a 'mainstream' refuge is located which having been through training, are adequately equipped to support black and brown women. 


Valerie's story. 

Valerie Forde, was murdered in Hackney, London on the 31/03/2014 after reporting  to the police that a threat was made to her life and the lives of her children. It was logged as a 'Threat to property' and no safeguarding  mechanisms were activated. Very shortly after, Valerie and her 22 month old baby daughter, RJ were viciously murdered by her ex partner who was child's father.

On the 1st May 2021, we launched, VALERIE'S LAW Compulsory Training for Agencies Supporting Black DV Victims.     https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/578416