- Who am I?
My names Laura, I am a survivor of domestic abuse and sexual violence. I consider those words, and believe no person should ever have to write or mutter them from their mouth, and its precisely those words that drives me to change the way in which we view domestic abuse.
My Background
In 2018, as part of my recovery and rediscovery after domestic abuse, I undertook a specialised programme called "The Freedom Programme", it changed my life. It gave me a wealth of knowledge and power, a new found confidence and it taught me that allot of what I thought was normal in my relationship of 13 years, was in fact not normal.
So what's missing?
It has been since then I have worked hard to research what is missing in my local area in particular. The Programme that helped me to rediscovery myself, and build my confidence back up, just does not exist where I live. Yes there is allot of information out there and sign posting, awareness is increasing and we see more and more campaigns on this. However, I want to help victims and survivors just like me and my children, and give them a chance at normal, give them a chance of rediscovery. Give them a safe setting to come and be among other people who share in their pain, but that can support their growth.
Why am I seeking Funding?
I have paid and undertaken a number of Domestic Abuse relating training and have gained qualifcations. I am embarking on the Freedom Programme Facilitator training too, but, I am not done yet!
This is where my plea for funding comes. To be able to complete 2 further specialised programme training, will allow me to provide a more holistic approach to the services I can provide to the community.
What I will bring to the local community
I will be able to support adults and children. I will be able to facilitate domestic abuse support programmes throughout my community. The funding will also assist me in setting up a physical presence to hold these support groups and pay for the administration elements as well as resources.
All domestic abuse support services are provided free of charge, and so each support group would be funded directly by myself, or any funding I receive. Its vital funds to allow me to get the services stood up and provide vital support to the community. These services do not exist today in my community and local communities. Standing this up will allow me to then seek collaboration with other larger charities to bolster their service offering.