Cheshire East Council has approved a new three‑year arrangement with YMCA Cheshire to enhance safe accommodation and specialist support for victims of domestic abuse across the borough.
The new provision, due to begin in April 2026, is the result of extensive engagement with survivors, local partners, and a rigorous procurement process.
Under the new model, victims will have access to a wider range of safe accommodation options, including both traditional refuge‑style housing for women and a network of dispersed properties suitable for larger families, male victims, and those with more complex needs preparing for independent living. The approach is designed to reflect the council’s commitment to Best Value and tailored, evidence‑based support.
The partnership follows a competitive tendering exercise initiated after the council’s children and families committee meeting in September, where providers were invited to bid for the new service. A panel comprising experienced service representatives from across the council completed the procurement process, with YMCA Cheshire selected subject to final contract signing.
Earlier this year, Cheshire East Council became the first local authority in the UK to receive Platinum Accreditation from the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) – the highest award available to housing providers working to tackle domestic abuse.
This prestigious recognition reflects the council’s transformative work in supporting survivors, having fully implemented DAHA’s Whole Housing Approach. This framework ensures that all housing tenures are integrated with support services to meet the diverse and complex needs of those affected by domestic abuse.
Chair of Chesire East Council’s Children and Families Committee, Cllr Laura Crane, commented:
“Supporting victims of domestic abuse in Cheshire East remains a top priority. Our Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit works tirelessly to ensure that anyone affected knows help is always available.
“I’m pleased that we are now working with YMCA Cheshire to increase the availability of safe accommodation for those who need it most. As a council, we provide a wide range of services and collaborate closely with local organisations to maintain strong relationships. This new agreement reflects our commitment under our new Domestic Abuse and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which incorporates feedback from the consultation over the summer. We have increased the number of safe accommodation spaces and are developing tailored support for children and young people living in these settings.
“Having personally experienced these services, I am passionate about promoting access to support and shining a light on the vital and impactful work carried out by our domestic abuse team.”
The new agreement with YMCA Cheshire builds on that progress by expanding access to safe, compassionate and effective accommodation, ensuring victims receive the right support at the right time.
With the new service in place from April 2026, the council aims to continue leading national best practice in domestic abuse housing and support.
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