MEA House building shall be sold to Northumbria University

Over twenty charities working in Newcastle City Centre have been told that they will lose their office after the building was sold to Northumbria University.

Charities based at MEA House on Ellison Place were informed on Monday 19th June 2023, that they would have to relocate following an exchange of contracts between owners MEA Trust and Northumbria University on Tuesday, June 13. Tenants will have until next summer to find a new premises and will be supported by MEA Trust and Northumbria University during the process.

Elaine Langshaw, Chief Executive at Newcastle Women’s Aid, expressed her shock at the sale and said she was “sad for the city” because so many important charities were based at the site. The charity provides domestic abuse support from its MEA House base. “We were shocked as we had no prior indication this was happening. We have provided specialist domestic abuse support services from our base at MEA House for the last six years. The location works so well for women and girls who need our services.”

“We are sad for the city of Newcastle as MEA House is home to a range of charities who provide essential support and services to all communities. We hope they can continue to do so in a new location within the city.”

We want to confirm Newcastle Women’s Aid is not closing.

This is really important to know as we do not want anyone experiencing domestic violence and abuse to think they cannot access help as this would increase risk. Newcastle Women’s Aid have provided specialist support to thousands of women and girls for over 45 years in the city and we will continue to do so.