Frequently Asked Questions ..

"Maybe they can help"

This list is updated from time to time!

We have compiled the sections below to give quick answers to the most common types of enquiries.

Your Questions Answered

Services & Updates

  • How long has WAITS been in existence?

    WAITS is an established charity which has worked with vulnerable women for 30+ years in Birmingham and the surrounding areas.

  • What’s the best way to get in touch quickly?

    You can call the office number 0121 440 1443 and select one of the options to be directed to the right department.

  • Is this a confidential service?

    Yes, highly confidential with the exception of preserving our clients/their children’s safety. We would need your permission to speak to other professionals.

  • How can you keep updated on WAITS work?

    You can use one of the options available on the registration page to subscribe to the WAITS e-newsletter. Simply fill out the basic registration information and follow the instructions that you receive via email.

  • What's your continued response to Covid-19?

    Whilst the pandemic is behind us, we continue to maintain appropriate vigilance according to the current advice provided by the National Health Service.

Refuge Accommodation

  • Where are the refuge sites?

    The WAITS Iona sites and addresses are confidential, and we only disclose these to women who take refuge with us.

  • Do we accept children in the refuge?

    Our four Iona houses set in and around Birmingham are for women living independently. Currently these spaces are for unaccompanied women only.

  • What is provided in refuge?

    We provide emergency accommodation for single women, aged 20 and over, affected by domestic abuse. See details via the services tabs below.

  • What’s the best way to refer professionally?

    You can access the referral page from the yellow bar at the top of the website, complete and send it to support@waitsaction.org or give us a call on 0121 440 1443

  • What’s the best way to refer myself?

    You can access the referral page from the yellow bar at the top of the website, complete and send it to support@waitsaction.org or give us a call on 0121 440 1443

Our Core Services

Creating a Legacy of Change for 30+ Years

Over the 30+ years of existence, WAITS goal has been to empower women, to give women a voice. WAITS supports any woman in need, however we have an added specialism in supporting women from Black, Chinese, South Asian and minority backgrounds.

pc station and desk toys

WAITS staff & trustees

Our team is made up of a dedicated and committed team of women from varied backgrounds that share our common Vision & Mission.


This includes full-time, part-time and sessional staff as well as our volunteers and the Board of Trustees.


We also work with a range of other agencies to provide holistic support, ensuring that all of the individual’s needs are met.

Learn more
WAITS Ambassadors

A valued fundraiser team

WAITS Ambassadors are a group of innovative and forward thinking people, diverse in their backgrounds, experiences and skills.


But the one thing they do all have very much in common is a passion for helping women who are in crisis!


They provide invaluable fundraising ideas; and then plan, organise and facilitate these ideas, helping us to raise funds to support women in crisis.

Learn more
Lloyds Foundation Awards

Making it all possible

WAITS receives sponsorship and support from a variety of sources and just some of them are featured on this page.


We have also been recipients of awards for good practice and engagement and some of these will be listed on this page.


WAITS has worked with women for almost 30 years. “Women with the power to make and influence decisions and make positive change”

Learn more