Lewisham Council has approved £668,162 in additional borrowing to fund capital works for a new high-needs domestic violence women's service, designed to support those whose needs may not be met by mainstream provisions.
Mayor and Cabinet members voted to approve the funding at their meeting on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. The money will be used to refurbish a council-owned property to create eight self-contained, trauma-informed homes for women experiencing domestic abuse and complex needs.
The service is specifically designed for women whose needs may not be met by mainstream refuge provisions. This includes individuals experiencing mental ill health, substance use, repeated homelessness, or those who may have had contact with the criminal justice system. The service will operate 24 hours a day, providing specialist support including safety planning, mental health and substance use support, and life skills development.
The Greater London Authority (GLA) will contribute £1.2 million towards the total estimated capital cost of just over £1.9 million, with the remaining £668,162 to be met through council borrowing. This borrowing will be financed by rental income from the homes.
Councillor Samantha Gardiner, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, highlighted the importance of the service, stating it would give women facing domestic abuse and complex needs a safe and stable home, alongside specialist support that they need to recover, to rebuild their lives, and to move towards greater independence.
Councillor Hau-Yu Tam welcomed the investment, noting its importance for vulnerable women and its potential to prevent higher costs in the long run. The service will work closely with housing, health, safeguarding, and specialist domestic abuse services to ensure women receive integrated support. The design of the service has been informed by specialist providers, the Lewisham Violence Against Women and Girls Board, and the voices of survivors. A provider will be appointed through a competitive tender process.
Regarding the long-term sustainability of the service, the annual financing cost of the council borrowing will be covered by rental income. The revenue costs for the support service will be fully funded by the GLA's DASAHP grant for an initial three-year period. Beyond this, the council states that 'alternative funding will be sought, or the building will be repurposed as required.' However, specific details on how long-term sustainability will be ensured beyond the initial grant funding and potential repurposing are not yet provided.
Further details on the council's financial planning can be found in the Public reports pack for the Mayor and Cabinet meeting.