Welcome to Her Story – a powerful collection of first-person accounts from survivors of domestic abuse. These brave individuals have chosen to share their journeys of resilience, hope, and recovery. Their stories shed light on the complexities of domestic abuse and the incredible strength it takes to overcome such experiences. All of these women found the support they needed through The Haven.
We are a dedicated domestic abuse charity that provides a crucial lifeline through both practical and emotional support to aid the journey to healing. By reading and sharing these narratives, we can raise awareness, foster empathy, and support the ongoing fight against domestic abuse. Each story is a testament to each woman’s capacity to endure and heal, and to the impact that compassionate support can have on a survivor’s path to a a life free from abuse.
Megan’s Story
At the height of fame for this star from BBC’s The Voice, no one knew that off the stage and behind closed doors, Megan Reece was a survivor whose talent had been overshadowed by the dark clouds of an abusive relationship for years. She shares her compelling story of how support from The Haven was crucial to her survival and transformation.
Naima’s Story
Rosie was carrying her two-month-old baby in her arms when she was attacked by her husband in the presence of her mother-in-law. They were both intoxicated and it wasn’t the first time.
Donna’s Story
Donna turned to The Haven’s IDVA Service for support during a challenging court case. Overwhelmed by the justice system, she battled despair and suicidal thoughts. Donna attributes her survival to the Haven IDVA’s encouragement and support.
Rebecca’s Story
Rebecca contacted The Haven after being subjected to abuse for 13 years. She was in a relationship with someone who was very controlling and subjected her to emotional, psychological, and physical abuse even after she left him. He stopped her from seeing their child and moved them to a different school when she reported the abuse.
Aoife’s Story
Aoife is a young woman who left her daughter’s father due to domestic violence and moved in with her mother where she lived with her daughter. The environment quickly became unbearable for her when her mother became manipulative and began to verbally, emotionally and financially abuse. She would take her out loans in her name and expect her to pay.
Tinu’s Story
Tinu ran away from conflict in her home country in West Africa, in search of safety and protection after her parents were kidnapped and murdered. Only to be met with violence here in the UK when she started an intimate relationship with a man she thought she had a future with.
Adanna’s Story
Adanna, pressured to marry a man 10 years older, faced control and abuse from both him and his family. When she tried to leave after moving to the UK, he threatened to force her back to their home country to undergo female genital mutilation.
Fatima’s Story
Fatima came to the UK to meet a man whom she thought was the love of her life. They had been in a long-distance relationship for a while. They were planning to get married but she quickly realised that he was not who she thought he was, when the sexual violence began.
Jasmin’s Story
Jasmin was forced into a marriage with someone who told her he did not want to be married to her. When her husband became abusive, and the police were called, she found out that he had canceled her application for right to remain.
Rosie’s Story
Rosie was carrying her two-month-old baby in her arms when she was attacked by her husband in the presence of her mother-in-law. They were both intoxicated and it wasn’t the first time.
Harpreet’s Story
Harpreet migrated from India to Cyprus after being persecuted for religious beliefs. In Cyprus she met a man who promised to bring her to the UK. Harpreet was excited by the prospects of a better life after losing both parents. She had no idea she was about to become a victim of human trafficking.
Amreen’s Story
Amreen was referred to The Haven due to abuse from her husband. She fled his property taking with her just her passport. She was in the UK on a two-year spousal visa which clearly stated no recourse to public funds.
Annie’s Story
Annie was referred to The Haven after she reported a rape by her ex-boyfriend who also filmed her without her consent and had images of a sexual nature on his phone which he threatened to post online if she was to leave him.
Amanda’s Story
Amanda was referred to The Haven after she was abused by her partner who weaponised her mental health to get custody of their children.
Naz’s Story
Naz was referred to The Haven after she was subjected to physical emotional and financial abuse, after the breakdown of an arranged marriage.