My journey during and after the refuge
I vividly remember the evening I fled to refuge. On that day, I arrived at the refuge carrying nothing but the heavy burden of uncertainty. I was 15 weeks pregnant and accompanied by my two boys, aged 10 and 15. At that time, the future seemed daunting and unclear, and the fear of the unknown gripped me.
Upon our arrival, the refuge provided us with extensive support. They ensured we had food for the first week, clothing for all of us, and preparations for the arrival of my unborn baby. The refuge also supported us through the immigration process, which was particularly challenging for our future. Their emotional support was extraordinary. I was treated as a person in need of compassion and understanding, rather than just a case number. The staff and volunteers were our pillars of strength, guiding us through those initial turbulent months. When it was time for my baby to be born, a staff member even acted as my birth partner, which meant the world to me. The refuge provided everything my baby needed, making our recovery much easier.
After six months, we moved to temporary accommodation. However, the transition wasn't easy, and about a year after the move, my mental health began to suffer. It was then that I sought support from Emma, who became a beacon of assistance to me. Through the refuge, I was able to receive 14 counselling sessions, which played a crucial role in my healing journey. I expressed a desire to return to school and pursue a career in social work, but I lacked the necessary resources, such as a laptop. Once again, the refuge provided laptops for both me and my children, opening doors to education and future opportunities.
With this new found support, I began my educational journey, beginning with studies in mathematics and English. I then went on to college to pursue a Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Work. Today, I am proud to say that I am in my second year of university, working towards a degree in Social Work. This past summer was particularly transformative, as we moved into our permanent home, a place that feels like a dream come true, a sanctuary where my children and I can thrive.
During the summer, I successfully applied for a job as a Housing Support Officer. I thoroughly enjoy working in this role, as it allows me to help others in need and bring hope to their lives. Additionally, I am a member of the board of trustees at the refuge, which enables me to support other women walking a similar path, offering them the empathy and encouragement that once lifted me.
As for my children, they have flourished beyond my expectations. My eldest son, G, adapted to a new school under difficult circumstances and achieved remarkable GCSE results with five 7s.Despite starting his A-levels under such unique circumstances, he excelled in college, earning a DMM, and is now preparing to study Occupational Therapy at university.
My second son benefited greatly from the refuge's play therapy, which helped him process the emotions tied to our past experiences a year after leaving the refuge. Now in Year 10, he enjoys playing basketball and football and continues to be a source of joy for his friends and teachers alike.
Then there's my little girl, H, who was born while we were still at the refuge. She started reception this September with the kind of optimism only a child can possess, proud to be a big, brave girl.
Reflecting on our journey, the transition from fear to a secure future feels nothing short of miraculous. The refuge was the anchor that held us steady amidst the storm, and I am ever grateful for their unwavering support. Today, our future is bright and filled with endless possibilities. The refuge not only provided us with safety but also empowered us to rebuild our lives with dignity and hope. As I look forward, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead, confident that whatever challenges come our way, we will face them together, stronger than ever. The future for me and my cubs is looking bright, and we are very optimistic. The fear of the unknown, when we were seeking refuge away from my perpetrator, has been very kind to us.
