Domestic Abuse Survivors Encourage Others: ‘Do not lose hope’

Two individuals who have survived domestic abuse have recounted their experiences, aiming to inspire others to seek assistance. Linda Huskisson, based in Peterborough, established Living Keys in 2021 with the purpose of supporting and empowering women affected by abuse. The organization has experienced an increase in demand for its services. Living Keys has provided assistance to over 400 women, whom Mrs Huskisson characterized as “brave and amazing.” Ms Huskisson and Anna (not her real name) discussed their personal journeys as part of the White Ribbon Campaign, a worldwide initiative dedicated to eradicating male violence against women and girls, stating, “do not lose hope.” For individuals impacted by the themes presented in this article, the BBC Action Line provides a directory of organizations prepared to offer support and guidance. Prior to founding Living Keys, Ms Huskisson, 64, organized coffee mornings for domestic abuse survivors, but she recognized that women “needed so much more support.” The charity provides courses, workshops, and a secure environment where individuals can socialize and feel heard with love and acceptance. She mentioned that she has now been happily married for 34 years. However, during her youth, she exited one “horrific” relationship, only to enter another abusive situation with an individual she characterized as “brutal.” She further stated: “For me it is beautiful to see them [survivors] pull through. “I get overwhelmed by their strengths and their love.”” Anna, 30, serves as a volunteer with Living Keys, expressing a desire “to give back” to the charity that she credits with saving her life following an abusive relationship. She recounted: “He took over my house and was running his drugs business from here.” “It started with a slap and then he punched me, bit me, stomped on my face, strangled me a few times. “I managed to kick him out of the house but he returned.”” “Every time someone knocked on my door, I would go hide in the wardrobe.” “I tried to commit suicide. I felt I had no way out of it until I came to Living Keys.” “Now I have got control of my life back. I feel hopeful and have mental health access via [the] NHS as well.” “It has been a long, slow process, but I am stronger.” Anna encouraged women experiencing domestic abuse to “try and seek help.” The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership reported earlier this year that official police statistics indicated 32,000 victims of domestic abuse in Cambridgeshire during 2022-23, with 7,000 of these cases occurring in Peterborough. A choir service took place in Cathedral Square as part of 16 days of action, commencing on 25 November. The event honored survivors of domestic abuse, featuring song selections chosen by the women themselves. For updates on Peterborough news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.