Women's refuge in Lincoln marks first year

A purpose-built refuge has helped more than 100 women and children in its first year.

The Lincoln Women's Aid shelter, which cost £1.2m, was officially opened in the summer of 2009.

It acts as a safe house where women and children can escape from domestic abuse and also provides information about benefits, legal rights and housing.

Staff say the centre had given 117 people a chance to rebuild their lives and hope they can help many more.

They added that as well as giving practical help, the shelter provided emotional support at a vital time.

Jenny James, a senior refuge worker, said: "The new building is a massive improvement.

"We find that the women who stay here are very happy and surprised at the high standard of accommodation and we are delighted to be celebrating our first anniversary.

"We've already helped over a hundred women and children, many of whom lived in fear for their lives and had nowhere else to go, and we hope that over the coming years we can help hundreds more like them."