True stories
True stories
Hearing from women who have survived violence and abuse is an inspiration. Knowing you are not alone can be a real help.
These are the stories of a few of the women who have contacted Refuge.
All their names and identifying details have been changed.
If you would like to share your story, please email janqui_mehta@refuge.org.uk or call 0207 395 7731.
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Janet’s story“I was frightened and shocked but he was always so sorry for what he had done and promised never to hurt me again.” |
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Yvonne’s story“I went to a cousin he didn’t even know about and changed my mobile number but I knew he’d find me eventually.” |
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Marie’s story“With all the help and support I’ve received I’ve been able to start to take control of my life and I am a lot more confident.” |
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Michelle’s story“I talked myself into believing it wasn’t a serious problem and no relationship was perfect.” |
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Christine’s story“By the time I was finally able to leave, I had been with Daniel for 30 years. It was a very long and painful journey but I now know that there is nowhere for me to go but up and I am looking to the future.” |
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Simone, Lisa and Nina“I had been living with my partner for about a year when he began to change.” |
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Angela’s story“I never took money out of a cashpoint without telling him first. Not once in the fifteen years we were together.” |
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Stacey’s story“I never imagined he’d rape me. Twice. And then tell me he’d done nothing wrong.” |
In 90% of domestic violence incidents that take place in family households children are in the same or next door room. They are the silent witnesses. The effect on them can be devastating.
Here is what a few of them have to say.
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Amina, Uzar and Tom“My Mum was sad in the old house because my Dad used to hit her every day. Sometimes I tried to stop him.” |
