Sanctuary Keepers is a Christian organisation providing front-line, personal, one-to-one support for women and families affected by domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse affects one in four women during their lifetime. This reality is present across all communities, including Christian communities and churches. Abuse is a pattern of behaviour designed to control, instil fear, and remove freedom.
Abuse can occur at any point in a relationship, including after separation. It may be current or historical — sometimes occurring years earlier, without the understanding, support, or healing ever having been received.
Anyone forced to change their behaviour because they fear a partner or former partner’s reaction is experiencing abuse. While abuse can affect anyone, evidence shows that most domestic abuse is carried out by men and experienced by women.
During a recent community women’s event attended by around 100 women, anonymous feedback revealed the scale of domestic abuse and the silence surrounding it.
Fear was the most common barrier — fear of retribution, fear of not being believed, and fear of having nowhere safe to go. Sanctuary Keepers exists especially for those who have never felt able or safe enough to ask for help.
Our vision is to establish a national organisation providing a unique, personal, front-line service supporting women and families to escape domestic abuse and begin long-term healing.
Sanctuary Keepers is led by individuals committed to safeguarding, compassion, and professional integrity. Team information will be shared as the organisation continues to grow.