Space shortage at Hong Kong's crisis shelters

There are not enough spaces at refuge centres for those fleeing domestic and sexual violence, the Legislative Council will hear from public deputations today.

According to official statistics, Hong Kong's five crisis shelters reached up to 90 per cent capacity in 2012 and the government was previously asked to increase capacity to meet demand.

"The shortage is quite serious. Many can't get in unless it's a very serious case," said lawmaker Dr Fernando Cheung Chiu-hung.

Cheung also pointed out that shelter services were inadequate in providing necessary child support, such as temporary day care, for a lot of mothers.

"The mother may need to visit the police, meet with lawyers or visit the hospital. In those cases, there would be no one to watch the children," said Cheung.

Li Ting, 37, sought temporary accommodation at shelters four times in five years. Three of those times she sought help after being beaten by her husband. The last time, she woke up in hospital and was then transferred to a shelter, where she stayed for a year. Li will move into public housing this month with her two children.

"Some of the shelters were very good, others not so much," said Li, who spoke of inflexible rules, such as limited time allowed in the kitchen.