1991 – First purpose-built refuge for women and children in the country

In October 1991 NVCFR opened the first purpose-built refuge in the country.  As is often the case the site was small, added to which the planners requirement for a car park left no space for an outdoor play area.  NVCFR was able to influence the design, and a lot of small bedrooms were incorporated, rather than a few large ones.  This proved to be beneficially in accommodating single women and the much smaller family sizes in recent years, compared to those in the early years. Over time, with the acquisition of an adjoining piece of land, and extension was built to accommodate an accessible flat and two larger rooms to accommodate larger families.  This was named the Alan Harland Wing in honour of our founder and first Trustee.