Exactly fifty years ago, the world’s first refuge for women fleeing domestic violence opened in London. After her small Chiswick terrace quickly filled to overflowing, the next twelve years became a constant scramble for founder Erin Pizzey as she set up dozens of women’s refuges by squatting in abandoned houses, before eventually attracting proper donors and real money.  

Her success caught the attention of the fledging Women’s Movement which was struggling financially after their initial housewife fan base grew tired of their provocative antics.