Since the Covid pandemic, calls to Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline have surged by 61%. Brick by Brick will fund the construction of a safe space where women can begin to rebuild their lives.

The Persimmon Foundation has donated £25,000 to the campaign, which will see The Independent’s readers coming together with businesses and celebrities to raise £300,000 toward the cost of the build.

Brick by Brick will help to create a refuge that is not just a roof over heads, but is a place of safety, security and healing. Persimmon Homes will be building a house equipped with discreet security measures, including CCTV and an arson-proof letterbox, ensuring that women and their children can begin to recover from trauma in an environment designed with their safety as the paramount concern. The aim is to complete the home in early 2025, providing an immediate escape route for women and children living in incomprehensible, daily danger.

Anthony Vigor, Chair of the Foundation, said: “The Foundation is pleased to be working in partnership with Refuge and The Independent on this positive campaign which recognises the importance of helping women and children flee domestic abuse.

“Everyone has a right to feel safe in their home and we are delighted to play our part in building what will become a sanctuary for a family affected by this issue.”