Survivor Stories

Thank you to these survivors of domestic abuse for telling their stories. They provide hope and inspiration to other people experiencing domestic abuse, who may feel that they are alone, or be too scared to ask for help. They also show what a lifeline RISE's services are.

WARNING - some of these stories contain descriptions of physical and sexual abuse which may not be suitable for everyone.

NOTE - Some names have been changed to protect identities.

Laura's Story

Maybe I’ll always be scared of him but he no longer has control over me, bit by bit I’m feeling like me again and feel positive about the future.

Jill's Story

I was just about managing to talk through the tears, tears of utter relief that I was actually being heard and believed

Nikki's story

“If I’m honest, if RISE hadn't been there and supported me then I don’t think I would be here today.”

LGBTQ+ refuge service user

After experiencing domestic violence and homelessness I had been left feeling hopeless and honestly believed, at 28 years old, that my life was over.