Reclaiming My Voice A Survivor’s Story

For over a decade I lived under control, cruelty, and silence. The abuse I endured was not a single moment but years of domestic, verbal, racist, emotional, and psychological harm from my ex‑wife and her family. It wore me down until my mental health broke. I felt erased, shamed, and powerless — until someone reached out and offered a way back.

How FearFree Helped Me Find Safety and Strength

When the police referred me to FearFree, they gave me more than practical help, they gave me a place to be heard. FearFree offered a safe space where I could begin to untangle the trauma, access support, and start to rebuild. Their compassion and practical support stopped the isolation and helped me take the first steps toward recovery.

My Path to Healing and Purpose

Leaving my job was terrifying, but it was also the turning point I needed. I threw myself into learning and recovery, art therapy, recovery groups, peer support networks, and training. Completing the "Awareness of Mental Health Problems" course at King’s College London opened a door I never thought I would walk through, a role as a mental health support worker. Now I support people with learning difficulties and mental health challenges, and every day I feel more whole and more useful.

Why I’m Fundraising for FearFree

FearFree was the first organisation to hold out a hand when I had nowhere else to turn, so I am fundraising for them. I am doing a sponsored tandem skydive from 15,000 feet, a leap that mirrors the leap so many survivors must take to leave abuse behind. This jump is about more than adrenaline, it is about turning fear into action and using my story to encourage others to speak up. The money raised will help FearFree continue to offer vital services: emergency support, advocacy, counselling, and practical help that can make the difference between staying trapped and finding safety. Your donation will help someone who feels silenced find a way to be heard and begin to heal.

The Growing Need and Jessica’s Message

FearFree has been a beacon of hope for over 30 years, providing life‑changing support to people who have experienced abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. Each year they assist thousands of adults and children across Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bristol, and Devon, empowering them to rebuild their lives free from fear. Jessica Gay, Head of Fundraising at FearFree, has highlighted the rising demand for their services: “Every year we see more and more people and families needing our support. Last year, our referral numbers increased by more than 30%. With costs rising at an incomprehensible rate, we know people are being forced to stay with their abuser through having no other option. Every penny counts in helping us to get people out of harm’s way, help them work through unimaginable traumas, and support them in their recovery to rebuild a life free from fear and abuse.”

A Call to Action

No one should suffer in silence. If my story resonates with you, please consider supporting FearFree. Together we can amplify the voices of survivors, fund life‑changing support, and build a future where people can rebuild their lives free from fear. To donate and support FearFree, please visit www.fearfree.org.uk/donate-form.

A Final Word of Hope

If you are reading this and you feel trapped, you are not alone. Reaching out for help was the bravest thing I ever did. Recovery is not a straight line, but with the right support it is possible to reclaim your voice, your safety, and your future.