Maya Oppenheim reveals shocking numbers behind the Brick by Brick campaign

In September 2023, The Independent launched the Brick by Brick campaign in partnership with the domestic abuse charity Refuge in the UK. The initiative sought to raise £300,000 to construct a safe house for those escaping domestic abuse along with their families and pets. The campaign garnered a significant response from both the general public and high-profile donors, enabling the total funds raised to exceed the original goal within weeks. As a result, plans were made to build two houses instead of one, leading to the construction of the first homes specifically designed for domestic abuse survivors by housebuilder Persimmon Homes. The ambitious project aimed not only to provide shelter but also to ensure that emotional support services were available to the survivors during their stay. The designated houses will feature modern safety measures such as fireproof letter boxes, CCTV, and enhanced locking systems, all linked to the local police, ensuring emergency services can respond promptly. Alongside these physical safety measures, Refuge staff will offer emotional support, legal advice, and help with practical matters like budgeting, safety planning, and finding new homes. The combination of safety features and support services is vital in helping survivors transition to a stable and independent life. To date, the campaign has attracted numerous donations, totaling over £X, reflecting strong community engagement and compassion toward victims of domestic abuse. Prominent figures supporting the campaign include HM The Queen, Sir Keir Starmer, Dame Joanna Lumley, and several other celebrities. This influx of support not only accelerated the campaign's objectives but also raised public awareness of the urgent need for adequate safe spaces for domestic abuse victims. The crisis in available refuge spaces amplifies the importance of the Brick by Brick initiative, especially in light of the statistic that a woman is turned away from a refuge every two hours in the UK due to a shortage of safe places. With the construction of these houses, The Independent and Refuge intend to set a precedent for future initiatives to tackle domestic abuse, emphasizing that safe housing is a cornerstone of recovery. The campaign successfully highlighted the collective responsibility to address domestic abuse and gave hope to many whose lives have been marred by violence. As the first of its kind for Persimmon Homes, this project represents a commitment to tackling one of society's pressing issues and serves as a model for future partnerships aimed at improving the lives of the most vulnerable in our communities.