Please Note: This episode of Club Rhubarb: After Hours contains discussions regarding domestic abuse, physical and emotional violence, and the experience of homelessness. We understand these topics can be distressing or triggering for many listeners. If you are not in a space where you feel comfortable engaging with this content, please feel free to skip this episode or listen with a friend. Your well-being is the priority.

In this raw and necessary episode of Club Rhubarb: After Hours, we tackle one of the most pressing yet overlooked issues in the UK: the direct link between domestic abuse and homelessness.​Why is it so difficult to "just leave"? We dive deep into the UK housing crisis, exploring the systemic barriers that survivors face when trying to find emergency accommodation and safe housing. From the reality of priority need and temporary housing to the psychological toll of displacement, we discuss what it really takes to escape a violent home in 2026.​Whether you are a survivor seeking domestic violence support, a professional in the housing sector, or a listener wanting to understand the survivor experience, this episode provides a sobering look at the fight for safety and stability.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the issues discussed in this episode, the following organizations offer free, confidential support:

​Domestic Abuse Support
• ​National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge): Call 0808 2000 247 (Freephone, 24/7) or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
• ​Women’s Aid: Live chat and local directory available at womensaid.org.uk.
• ​Men’s Advice Line: Support for male victims of domestic abuse. Call 0808 8010 327 or visit mensadviceline.org.uk.
• ​Galop: Specialist support for LGBTQ+ people. Call 0800 999 5428 or visit galop.org.uk.
​Homelessness & Housing Support
• ​Shelter: Expert housing and homelessness advice. Call 0808 800 4444 (8am–6pm weekdays) or visit shelter.org.uk.
• ​Crisis: Help for people experiencing homelessness. Visit crisis.org.uk to find your local centre.
• ​StreetLink: If you are sleeping rough or see someone who is, use the StreetLink app to connect with local services.
​Mental Health & Immediate Safety
• ​Samaritans: Available 24/7 for anyone in distress. Call 116 123.
• ​Emergency Services: If you are in immediate danger, always call 999. (If you cannot speak, dial 999 then press 55 to let the operator know it is an emergency).