A NEW partnership has been forged to safeguard the future of a Burnley-based women’s refuge service.

East Lancashire Women’s Refuge Association (ELWRA) has teamed up with the borough’s main housing landlord, Calico, in a new venture.

The move echoes plans in Pendle to combine Pendle Women’s Refuge with Pendle Domestic Violence Initiative.

ELWRA manager Helen Gauder said: “The partnership offers considerable benefits, bringing greater security for ELWRA and ensuring that quality domestic violence accommodation and support services continue to be delivered in Burnley and beyond.”

Under the arrangement, the association will become a subsidiary of Calico.

Michael Birkett, Calico Homes chief executive, added: “This is an important development for the area.

"By joining forces we believe we will be able to deliver our services much more effectively, whilst continuing to support the most vulnerable in our community, and making a difference where it’s really needed.”

The association, which takes referrals from all over East Lancashire, provides refuge services and Safenet community outreach service.