A NEW women's refuge has opened in the run-up to Christmas, recognised as a time of suffering, rather than celebration, for many victims of domestic violence.

The safe haven for women and their children, featuring fully furnished one-, two- and three-bedroom flats, is now taking in its first vulnerable guests in Middlesbrough.

It offers a flat equipped for disabled women and an extra room for emergency overnight stays, as well as a playroom for young children, a teenage room and an outdoor play area - all within the secure site.

A range of studies have identified that in the UK, one in four women suffers from domestic abuse during her lifetime and two women are killed each week by a violent current or former partner.

Teresa Parker, spokeswoman for the support charity Women's Aid, said Christmas could be a particularly harrowing time for people in abusive relationships as the pressures of financial difficulties and spending long periods with an abusive partner combine to create greater anxiety and stress.

The modern shelter has been developed by Endeavour Housing Association and is managed by local domestic abuse charity Harbour Support Services.

Diane Cosstick, head of supported housing at Endeavour, said: "A t a time when budgets for supporting some of society's most vulnerable people are being squeezed, we are delighted to be opening up a new facility of this kind which is so vital to give hope to women and children who are in the direst circumstances."

While living at the new refuge, women will receive support for practical tasks, such as finding permanent accommodation and rebuilding their confidence so they are ready to live independently in the community.

Lesley Gibson, director of Harbour, added: "Women coming into a refuge are usually at a very low point in their lives - feeling they have no value and don't deserve anything better.

"Our view is that providing accommodation of this standard, exceeding their expectations, can be the first step to them recognising that they do have value, and a valid place in the community."

Anyone needing advice or assistance for themselves or a family member can contact Harbour staffi Middlesbrough 24 hours a day on 01642-861788 and in an emergency call 999.