A WOMEN’S refuge is celebrating 40 years of saving lives and helping survivors of domestic abuse.

Founded in 1976, Family Help Darlington began life in a condemned two-bedroomed terrace house, as a pilot project with no funding.

Established by a small group of locals, the refuge was born from a desire to shelter vulnerable women and children fleeing from abusive relationships.

Over the course of four decades, it has offered life-saving support to thousands of people, some of whom will speak about their experiences at the charity’s upcoming annual general meeting.

On Wednesday, October 19, survivors and team members past and present will address the meeting to highlight the vital role the refuge plays in the community.

Once a resident herself, Susan Degnan is now assistant manager, working with a small team to ensure the refuge can continue its work indefinitely.

She said: “When the refuge began, it was very overcrowded, with ten families sharing two bedrooms in a condemned house.

“It was somewhere safe and the volunteers were doing everything to get food and furniture – we’ve moved repeatedly since then and grown so much.

“We’ve helped thousands of survivors and everybody’s unique – I could never have learned from books what I’ve learned from them.

“It is hard work and a real challenge but we have survived thanks to the support of the community and the donations they give us, whether it’s money or second hand bedding it all keeps us going.”

Ms Degnan will share her story at the AGM, which will also be attended by manager Carole Clarkson, who said: “This charity has been a life-line for 40 years.

“We’ve put a roof over people’s heads and we’ve tried to let them know that they’re not alone.

“We help them recognise domestic abuse is not their fault.”

The meeting will take place at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington from 10.30am on Wednesday, October 19, with a black tie anniversary ball arranged for Friday, October 14 at the Mercure Kings Head Hotel.

Call 01325 364486 for information.