MK ACT

Every day it works with over 100 families, offering vital support, refuge and new beginnings to those escaping domestic abuse. MK ACT has been part of our city for more than 45 years, committed to providing safe emergency accommodation, advice and long-term recovery services. Their work is lifeline. (www.mkact.com)

What they do & how they help locally

Operates a Crisis Intervention Service including a helpline, advice, information, and pathways to safety.
Runs an emergency refuge with accommodation for about 28 families (women and their children), with support from trained key workers.
Provides specialist services for children and young people living in refuge to help them cope with trauma and rebuild confidence.
Offers group work programmes such as the Freedom Programme, and “Ilam-el-Hifzat” for women from ethnic minority backgrounds.
Delivers the Fresh Start programme aimed at changing the behaviour of people who use domestic abuse, while offering support to their partners or ex-partners.
Supports people of all genders, ages 16+, and from any background or identity; ensures accessible help regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality.

Why it makes a difference for the disadvantaged & diverse communities
Abuse doesn’t discriminate, but resources do — and MK ACT strives to reach people who might otherwise get missed: those from migrant or minority communities, those facing language, financial or cultural barriers. The service offers female support workers on request, works to make sure ethnic minority women are heard, tailors programmes to fit people’s backgrounds, and ensures support is safe, confidential, and culturally aware. For those with few resources, MK ACT helps with essential services, safety planning, sometimes practical aid, so people can begin rebuilding their lives.

How listeners can support or volunteer

Volunteer: Help in many roles — emotional support, practical assistance, events, fundraising, marketing. It’s flexible: you can commit a few hours a week, or assist at specific events. MK ACT especially welcomes volunteers who speak different languages (Eastern European, Asian dialects etc).
Donate or fundraise: Donations help with refuge spaces, safety tools, counselling, emergency costs. Consider fundraising challenges, events or giving via regular or one-off gifts.
Corporate support: Businesses can partner, nominate MK ACT as their charity of the year, provide pro bono services, sponsor projects, encourage staff involvement.
Awareness & advocacy: Share information, become a Domestic Abuse Champion — help people recognise abuse, know where to turn.

MK ACT’s dedication brings safety, dignity and hope to people across Milton Keynes. Be part of the movement to ensure no one facing abuse walks alone.