Refuge’s hard-hitting film reveals the hidden threat women face at home
A seemingly picture-perfect house tour takes a disturbing twist in a powerful new film released today by domestic abuse charity Refuge.
Launched ahead of International Women’s Day, the film exposes a devastating truth: for many women, the most dangerous place is their own home.
Actor Fizz Waller plays upbeat estate agent ‘Kate’, guiding viewers through a bright three-bedroom family property. At first glance, it appears to be the kind of polished property-influencer content you might see on Instagram.
But subtle warning signs quickly emerge.
Admiring the kitchen, Kate says: “These beautiful units are actually soft-close and lockable – perfect storage space for your partner to confiscate things that matter to you, like your phone. Even your medication.”
As the tour continues, comments about a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely, a missing en-suite door and a deep bath “perfect for a long soak” begin to take on a darker meaning – exposing coercive control, technology-facilitated abuse and physical violence.
The film ends with Kate speaking into the camera, her tone shifting as it cuts away to the bathroom mirror, where steam from running taps reveals the number for the National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
The release is part of Refuge’s International Women’s Day campaign, Home is Where the Hurt is –developed in collaboration with global creative consultancy Revolt – which aims to raise awareness
of the dangers women face behind closed doors. The film was directed by Bonnie MacRae, who assembled a majority-female crew to shoot and edit the film, and produced by Spindle.
In England and Wales, one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and 75 women were killed by a current or former partner or family member in the year ending March 2025.
Esther*, a survivor whose ex-husband attacked her in the bath while she was pregnant, leaving her fearful she might drown, said: “The scene in the bathroom is particularly harrowing – but these are the realities women are living with right now. I hope the film reaches those who need it most and helps them realise they are not alone and that support is available.”
Refuge ambassador Cherie Blair added: “For so many women, abuse happens in the very place that’s meant to feel safest. If this film helps even one woman recognise the signs and seek support, it will have made a difference.” To watch the film, visit: Home is Where the Hurt is
If you or someone close to you has felt unsafe at home because of a current or former partner or family member, Refuge is here for you. Every day we support women and their children escaping abuse, and our specialist services save lives.
To help more women find Refuge, text REFUGE to 70560 to donate £10.*
*Refuge is a registered charity (No. 277424). Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.
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