The CDCH Safe Space Scheme

The CDCH Safe Space Scheme is a pet fostering service for individuals fleeing domestic abuse, that provides support and care to their pets while they are temporarily unable to. Our project offers a solution to a vulnerable situation and enables an individual to flee to safety.

Refuges offer a place of safety but are sadly unable to accept pets meaning that in many cases individuals experiencing domestic abuse are unable, or reluctant to leave their home until they know there is somewhere safe for their pet. Our Safe Space scheme provides no-cost pet care enabling vulnerable individuals and families access to a refuge without the fear of what could happen to their pet.

Our first client tells us about her puppy, Cookie:

"I placed my puppy into the care of the team at the Cotswold Dogs & Cats Home when I had to flee my home to enter a women's refuge. They were really accommodating and got my dog into foster care within a couple of days. "I was reassured her care needs would be met, and one weight was lifted from my shoulders instantly. It was a completely smooth process and I am now looking forward to getting my dog back, knowing she has had the best possible care. "I cannot thank the team and the foster carers enough for helping me at my greatest time of need. "I owe the team so much, and without them, I would not have been able to get to safety as quickly as I did".

How to access Safe Space

In order to access the support of our Safe Space Scheme, you will need to be referred by a professional body.

Below are some of the services we have already worked with, in support of their clients. Do visit their website or contact them for further advice on the support they can provide. They will then be able carry out a referral on your behalf:

The Nelson Trust – Women’s Community Services.

Stroud – 01453 885 633,

Gloucester – 01452 397 690

www.nelsontrust.com

GDASS – Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service – 01452 726 570

https://www.gdass.org.uk

Stroud Women’s Refuge – 01453 764 385

https://www.stroudwomensrefuge.org

Fear Free

Wiltshire – 01225 775276

Gloucestershire – 01452 529866

https://www.fearfree.org.uk/

If you are fleeing domestic abuse, or working on behalf of a client, please contact the relevant service above, or the reception team at CDCH for further information on how to access our pet fostering service.

How does it work?

We work closely with key organisations within our community to ensure a successful multi-agency approach in a client’s time of need.

A contractual arrangement is put in place between the owner and CDCH. Safe Space animals are cared for in the loving home of a volunteer foster carer until their owner can be safely reunited with them.

During the animal’s stay, regular updates will be provided through the refuge to the owner, whilst maintaining strict confidentiality measures of the animal’s location.

I would like to become a foster carer

Fostering an animal is a rewarding experience for any animal lover. If you live locally and would like to help, please CLICK HERE for more information about fostering.