## **TRUSTEES' ANNUAL REPORT** 

For the period 

## **3 July 2024 to 31 March 2025** 

**CHARITY INFORMATION** Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) **Charity Registration Number: 1208960** Registered in England and Wales **CONTACT INFORMATION** Email: hello@hersafenetwork.org Website: www.hersafenetwork.org 




## **Executive Summary** 

Her Safe Network is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic abuse through the provision of safe accommodation and comprehensive trauma-informed support services. This report covers our activities and achievements for the period from 3 July 2024 to 31 March 2025. 

## **Key Achievements** 

**65+ 1,200+ 45+** Survivors Supported Weeks of Accommodation Positive Move-On Outcomes 

## **Service Delivery Highlights:** 

- Provided safe, pet-friendly accommodation with 8,000+ wellbeing visits ensuring consistent trauma-informed care 

- Delivered 3,500+ hours of dedicated support, with every client receiving a minimum of 3 hours weekly 

- Supported survivors from 15+ nationalities, speaking 11 languages, demonstrating inclusive and culturally competent service delivery 

- Successfully submitted 12+ Indefinite Leave to Remain applications with 6+ approvals, providing survivors with legal protection and long-term stability 

- Achieved 100% DASH risk assessment completion rate with zero address disclosure breaches 

- Supported approximately 41 male survivors, addressing a recognised gap in domestic abuse provision for men 

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## **Diversity and Inclusion** 

Our services were accessible to survivors from diverse backgrounds including multiple faiths (Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Atheism), sexual orientations (straight, gay, LGBTQ+), and those with complex physical and mental health needs including autism, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and mobility impairments. 

## **Referral Agencies** 

Our charity has received referrals from a wide range of agencies across the UK, reflecting our strong multi-agency partnerships and trusted reputation in supporting domestic abuse victims. Referral sources include, but are not limited to, the following organisations: 

- **Local authorities** such as Wiltshire Council, Warwick District Council, Leeds Housing Options, BCP Council, Canterbury City Council, and Bedford Borough Council. 

- **Specialist domestic abuse services** including Women’s Aid in Luton, BAWSO, Hestia, KMEWO (Kurdish and Middle Eastern Women’s Organisation), Refuge, and FearFree. 

- **Law enforcement agencies** such as West Mercia Police, Lancashire Constabulary, and the Metropolitan Police. 

- **Helplines and national organisations** including Live Fear Free Helpline, Mankind Initiative, and IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services). 

- **Partner voluntary and community sector agencies** such as Asian Women’s Resource Centre (AWRC), Nottingham Muslim Women’s Network, and The Wish Centre. 

## **Financial Overview** 

During the reporting period, the charity's income was primarily derived from accommodation-related and service-related funding. The trustees monitored the financial 

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position throughout the period and ensured resources were applied solely in furtherance of charitable objectives. 

The charity demonstrated strong value for money, delivering intensive support with limited resources while securing significant external funding through benefits and legal outcomes for clients. 

As the charity's income was below the statutory audit threshold, the accounts are not subject to statutory audit but have been independently examined where required in accordance with Charity Commission requirements. 

## **Looking Forward** 

The trustees are committed to continuing the delivery of high-quality accommodation and support services, strengthening partnerships with local authorities and specialist providers, and seeking sustainable funding to ensure long-term service delivery and organisational stability 

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## **1. Reference and Administrative Details** 

|**Charity name:**|Her Safe Network|
|---|---|
|**Legal status:**|Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO)|
|**Country of registration:**|England and Wales|
|**Principal area of**<br>**operation:**|West Midlands|



## **Trustees serving during the period:** 

- Nuojia He 

- Charles Taku 

- Yee Lok Lo 

- Qui Fong Tiow 

_No trustee received any remuneration, benefits, or expenses during the reporting period._ 

## **2. Structure, Governance and Management** 

Her Safe Network is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by its constitution and overseen by its board of trustees. The trustees are responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction, safeguarding, and financial oversight of the charity. 

Trustees meet regularly to review service delivery, financial position, compliance matters, and risks. Day-to-day operations are delivered through trustee oversight, volunteers, and external professionals, including legal, housing, and welfare support partners. 

New trustees are appointed in line with the charity's constitution and are inducted through a review of governing documents, policies, safeguarding procedures, and operational practices. 

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## **3. Objectives and Charitable Purposes** 

The charitable objective of Her Safe Network is to relieve the needs of survivors of domestic abuse by providing safe accommodation and trauma-informed support services. 

## **The charity aims to:** 

- Provide safe, secure, and inclusive accommodation for survivors of domestic abuse 

- Support individuals who face barriers to accessing mainstream refugee services, including those with pets and individuals from underrepresented or marginalised groups 

- Assist beneficiaries to stabilise their lives, access appropriate services, and move towards independent living 

These objectives guided all activities undertaken during the reporting period. 

## **4. Activities During the Year** 

During the period from 3 July 2024 to 31 March 2025, Her Safe Network focused on delivering specialist domestic abuse accommodation and wrap-around support services in Coventry. 

## **Key activities included:** 

- Providing safe, pet-friendly accommodation to survivors of domestic abuse 

- Delivering support linked to accommodation, including regular welfare checks 

- Conducting risk assessments and safety planning, including DASH risk assessments where appropriate 

- Supporting beneficiaries to access: 

   - Universal Credit and housing-related benefits 

   - GP registration and NHS mental health services 

   - Legal aid referrals, including immigration and family law support 

- Assisting beneficiaries with practical matters such as documentation, applications, and move-on housing options 

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- Working collaboratively with local agencies, charities, and community organisations to coordinate support and referrals 

## **5. Impact and Achievements** 

During the reporting period, the charity delivered a significant and measurable impact, supporting **65+ survivors** of domestic abuse from **15+ nationalities** . The charity provided over **1,200+ weeks** of safe accommodation and conducted **8,000+ wellbeing visits** , ensuring consistent, trauma-informed care. 

As a result of this support, **45+ clients** successfully transitioned to independent living, secure housing, alternative specialist services, or safe family reunification. 

## **Comprehensive Support Delivery** 

- **48+ clients** were successfully registered with GP services 

- **29+ clients** accessed NHS Talking Therapy and specialist mental health services 

- **47+ clients** were supported with Universal Credit applications 

- **44+ clients** received Housing Benefit assistance 

- Every client received a minimum of **3 hours** of dedicated weekly support, totalling **3,500+ support hours** delivered 

This holistic approach ensured that survivors were supported across housing, health, financial stability, and recovery. 

## **Breaking Barriers: Immigration and Legal Outcomes** 

The charity delivered specialist support to survivors with insecure immigration status, achieving life-changing outcomes: 

- **12+ Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)** applications submitted, with **6+ successful approvals** 

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- **14+ Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC)** applications 

   - processed 

- **12+ family law referrals** , including: 

      - 8+ divorce proceedings 

      - 3+ non-molestation orders secured 

These outcomes provided survivors with legal protection, security, and long-term stability. 

## **Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility** 

The charity supported survivors from a wide range of backgrounds, demonstrating inclusive and culturally competent service delivery. 

## **Nationalities supported included:** 

British, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Polish, Lebanese, Egyptian, Sudanese, Moroccan, Indian, 

Turkish, Estonian, Georgian/Russian, Portuguese, Gambian, Romanian, Dominican Republic, and Irish. 

## **Languages supported included:** 

English, Urdu, Bengali, Bengali Sylheti, Arabic, Turkish, Spanish, Russian, Hindi, Polish, and Bangla. 

## **Faith and belief backgrounds included:** 

Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity, Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, Atheism, and others. 

## **Sexual orientation and gender inclusion:** 

The charity supported straight, gay, and LGBTQ+ survivors, ensuring services were accessible and affirming for all. 

## **Supporting Survivors with Disabilities and Health Needs** 

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Specialist support was provided to survivors with complex physical and mental health needs, including autism, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, chronic pain conditions, mobility impairments, and sensory impairments. 

Reasonable adjustments, accessible communication, and coordination with health services ensured all clients could safely access support. 

## **Gender Inclusion and Male Survivor Support** 

The charity supported approximately **41 male survivors** and **23 female survivors** , addressing a recognised gap in domestic abuse provision for men. Clients ranged from 18 to 60+ years, with tailored support reflecting individual needs and life stages. 

## **Safeguarding and Risk Management Excellence** 

- **60+ DASH risk assessments** completed (100% of clients) 

- **50+ clients** identified as medium-to-high risk 

- **30+ police involvement** cases supported 

- **Zero address disclosure breaches** 

- Immediate relocation action taken in **4 safeguarding incidents** to protect confidentiality 

Types of abuse documented and supported included physical, emotional, psychological, 

financial, coercive control, sexual abuse, and honour-based violence. 

## **Empowerment, Independence and Positive Exits** 

The charity supported survivors to rebuild independence through: 

- 12+ clients attending English language classes 

- 15+ job interviews supported 

- 3+ clients receiving laptops and digital skills support 

- 1 client passing the Life in the UK test 

- 2 clients volunteering at Canley Food Bank 

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## **Positive exits achieved included:** 

- 8+ clients securing council housing 

- 12+ clients moving to independent accommodation 

- 6+ clients transitioning to alternative specialist services 

- 2+ safe family reunifications 

- 17+ other positive outcomes (private rental, safe return abroad, or specialist refuge moves) 

In total, **65+ clients** completed their stay with documented outcomes, with an average stay of **15–16 weeks** . 

## **Client Voice and Feedback** 

Client feedback consistently described the charity's support as "life-changing" and "like family." One client stated: 

_"When I was there I felt very alone. After coming here, I felt like my life is newly started."_ 

All complaints received were addressed transparently and used to improve safeguarding and service delivery. 

## **Practical Support and Value for Money** 

- 39+ clients received clothing support 

- 60+ clients accessed food banks and emergency food parcels 

- Ongoing advocacy, appointment support, and correspondence assistance provided 

The trustees consider the charity has demonstrated strong value for money, delivering intensive support with limited resources while securing significant external funding through benefits and legal outcomes. 

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## **Our Year in Numbers** 

**65+ 15+** survivors supported countries represented **11 1,200+** languages supported weeks of safe accommodation **8,000+ 3,500+** wellbeing visits support hours delivered **45+ 12+** positive move-on outcomes ILR applications (6+ approved) **14+ 100%** MVDAC applications clients received risk assessments 

## **6. Public Benefit Statement** 

The trustees confirm that they have had due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit. The charity's activities relieved hardship, reduced homelessness, improved safety, and supported recovery and independence for survivors of domestic abuse. 

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## **7. Risk Management** 

The trustees regularly review risks including safeguarding, financial sustainability, operational capacity, and reliance on external partners. Appropriate controls and procedures are in place, and risks are actively monitored. 

## **8. Financial Review** 

During the reporting period, the charity's income was primarily derived from 

accommodation-related and service-related funding. Expenditure was mainly incurred in providing accommodation, delivering support services, and meeting essential operational and compliance costs. 

The trustees monitored the charity's financial position throughout the period and ensured that resources were applied solely in furtherance of the charity's objectives. 

As the charity's income was below the statutory audit threshold, the accounts are not subject to a statutory audit. Where required, the accounts have been independently examined in accordance with Charity Commission requirements. 

## **9. Plans for the Future** 

In the coming year, the trustees intend to: 

- Continue delivering safe accommodation and support services for survivors of domestic abuse 

- Strengthen partnerships with local authorities, charities, and specialist support providers 

- Improve internal systems for reporting, transparency, and service monitoring 

- Seek sustainable funding to support long-term service delivery and organisational stability 

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## **10. Trustees' Responsibilities Statement** 

The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duties under the Charities Act 2011 and have prepared this Trustees' Annual Report in accordance with applicable charity accounting and reporting guidance. 

## **Approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf** 



Name: Charles Taku Role: Trustee Date: 27/01/2026 

Name: Yee Lok Lo Role: Trustee Date: 27/01/2026 

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CHARITY COMM15510N
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4,010
15,765
19,765
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Indop•ndent Examlnerf8 Report to tho Tn*t¢•• of
H•r Safo N•twork
I rerort lo the trusts8s on my examlnallon of the actr)unts of Her Safè N•lw¢rfE for the porrod
ended 31 Plarch 21Y25.
Rospon8ltsllttle$ and b*$l# of report
As th8 charlV$ twstegs. you aro r¢spon8ible for the preparation of the accounts In arLordance with
the requirements of the Charltlo$ Art 2011.
I raport In ro$pe¢¢ of my examinalTon ofthe chorltys acccojnts carried under section 145 of the
Charities Acl 2011 and. in carrying oul my examination, I have followed thè appllcable dIr8d￿)n$
given by the Charity Commlsslon for England and Wates.
Indgpendent examiner's 8tat•m•nt
I hov8 oxamlned the ac¢tyJnts of th8 charity forthe partod endad 31 March 2025. whlch comprise
roc8lpts arto p8ym&nl8 accounts and the related ststement of balarThs.
My examination was carrfed out In a¢￿[dancE wllh the Charity Commission's guidancE on
irhlependent examinauon. It induded a review of the accounting records kfjpl by tho tharity and a
mparison of the accounts presented with Ihose records.
Mattorn to rèport
I have no concems and havo o)me acro88 no other matters in 0)nnec￿n with the exarninalion to
which attention should be drawn.
In my oplnbn. tho a¢￿Unts provide a tru8 and fair Summary ofthe charfvs financlal athlttes for
the peric*J and lis flnandal position at the end of th¢ period.
Do¢larafjon
I confimi th811 am independ8nl of the charity. and that I have no connectlon wlth the charity which
would prevent me from ￿rying out Ihis gxamination.
Name of Indopendont Examln•r Lel Chen
Profe88lonal quallfi¢•tlon: ACCA- Chartered Certified Accounlant
Addr•$B: 2 Gre8n Stre8C Greon Rood. Dartford, DA11QE
Slgnaturg:
Dalè:
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