This is what Christmas is like in for families in Darlington s women s refuge CHRISTMAS can be a nightmare for women and families experiencing domestic abuse. Annual leave and school holidays mean everyone is packed back under the same roof, if that is not already the case due to Covid, removing the only escape from abuse that is provided by school or work. While fleeing domestic abuse means finding a safe place away from violence, it also means leaving home, friends, family and school. For the 30 children supported by Darlington Family Help, the town’s only women’s refuge, resettling can be challenging. Many families come from out of the area, often bringing little with them, but staff at the refuge have been working hard to ensure children know Santa will still visit them.