A fully furnished fresh start for survivors of domestic abuse

A family who escaped domestic abuse say a huge weight has been lifted since being moved into a fully furnished affordable home in Waltham Forest. 

The borough’s innovative pilot to provide fully furnished homes for survivors of domestic abuse has reached an important milestone, with a third property now completed and handed over to a family beginning their journey to recovery. 

The pilot project was developed by Peabody and the charity Furnishing Futures, and delivered in partnership Waltham Forest Council, offers survivors more than just a roof over their heads. It provides something invaluable: a safe, beautifully furnished home where rebuilding can finally begin. 

Peabody provided the three homes in Waltham Forest, but hopes to offer more in other boroughs, as well as encouraging other housing associations to get involved. Furnishing Futures uses their expertise in support work and interior design to work with the resident to make their new home as comfortable as possible, while being mindful of past traumas, while the council identifies residents who have been living in refuge accommodation and enables a direct social housing tenancy offer in the borough.

Many survivors flee with nothing, facing furniture poverty as they begin again. This can leave families in empty rooms, taking on unexpected costs and navigating the overwhelming task of sourcing basic items at a time when stability matters most.  

This scheme removes that burden completely. Peabody provides the flooring, painting and decorating, while Furnishing Futures supplies the white goods, furniture and soft furnishings. The Furnishing Futures team - specialists in support work and trauma-informed interior design - work closely with each family to create a space that feels calming, dignified and genuinely their own.

The charity’s model prevents thousands of new, unused high‑quality items from going to landfill by reusing donated furniture from brand partners and supporters across the interior design industry. 

By redirecting items that would otherwise go to waste, Furnishing Futures has saved 92,000kg of unwanted furniture from landfill last year alone. This means families benefit from comfortable, homely and stable spaces that they deserve. At the same time, the scheme reduces waste, protects the environment, and helps residents avoid the significant cost of furnishing a home from scratch. 

One resident shared just how life-changing this has been: 

“At first, I felt so overwhelmed, but once the home was furnished, it felt like a huge weight had lifted. My kids are happier, and they even invite their friends over. I can finally feel hopeful again. It reminds me there are still good people in the world and this support gave us a real fresh start.”  

With three homes now complete, this pilot is demonstrating how powerful a furnished fresh start can be. And we’re determined to help even more survivors rebuild with dignity, stability and confidence.

Emily Wheeler, CEO of Furnishing Futures, said: 

Furnishing Futures is proud of the trauma-informed homes we have created during this pilot scheme, transforming three unfurnished properties into fully equipped, healing homes for survivors of domestic abuse and their children. Having a furnished home supports survivors' wellbeing, as well as reducing poverty and debt, which survivors often find themselves in just to afford the basics. This pilot scheme with Peabody and Waltham Forest has shown how important a fully furnished home is for survivors to be able to rebuild their lives in safety.
 

Elly Hoult, Chief Operating Officer at Peabody, said: 

This initiative has been a practical and effective way to support survivors as they rebuild their lives. Everyone leaving an abusive situation should have a safe, stable place to start again. A home that is ready to live in removes cost, stress and uncertainty at a very difficult time. Working with Waltham Forest and Furnishing Futures, we are really pleased to have helped these residents move into settled homes where they can focus on recovery and the future.

Cllr Ahsan Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said: 

Starting again after leaving an abusive situation can feel incredibly daunting, which is why this partnership is so important. By providing a safe, fully furnished home, we’re giving survivors a space to begin rebuilding their lives with dignity and stability. It’s a practical, compassionate approach that makes a real difference, and it’s positive for the environment too, as quality donated furniture is put to good use rather than going to landfill.

Domestic abuse is far more common than many people realise. In the year ending March 2025, an estimated 3.8 million adults (2.2 million women and 1.5 million men) experienced domestic abuse. Misunderstandings still exist about what abuse looks like, why it happens, and who it affects.  

Understanding the facts can help people recognise signs of abuse, whether you’re worried about yourself, a neighbour, a friend or a family member, and know that support is available. 

If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, confidential help is available. 

• Violence Against Women and Girls drop‑in sessions: Waltham Forest Council holds drop-in sessions in our Family Hubs across the borough. You can speak to a specialist worker for support and advice, no appointment needed. You do not need to have a child to access this service. Visit our support pages for more information. 
   
• 24-hour support: The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available via the free number 0808 2000 247. You can call for support for yourself or someone you’re worried about. In an emergency, always call 999. 
   
• Local specialist support: You can also call Waltham Forest Solace Women’s Aid on 07340 683382 or visit their website for advice and support.  
   
• Support if you’re worried about your own behaviour: If you’re concerned that you may be at risk of hurting your partner or family, the Respect Helpline is confidential and free on 0808 802 4040 or visit the Respect website.