Want to join me in supporting a cause close to my heart? I'm walking 60 miles in September for Refuge who on any given day support thousands of women and their children who are survivors of domestic abuse.

My experience with Domestic Abuse is sadly a personal one and is something I have tolerated throughout my life and into my 40's! Be assured Harriette's Dad and my gorgeous Simon are NOT implicated in this at all.

In my late 30's I did some volunteering at Taunton's Women's Refuge, where I delivered some beauty treatments for the ladies. It was a sad but happy place! They'd arrived with nothing but the clothes on their backs and some clothes for the kids. They relied on donations of super market vouchers to buy the basics like sanitary towels and food. Despite their poverty, they were safe and they were joyous!

More recently for me, harrassment from an ex-partner left me feeling scared, vulverable and at risk again. NO-ONE should EVER feel this way. Be assured, I never will again!

I am walking 60 Miles in September to raise awareness of this sick epidemic. Parents please EDUCATE your children and lead by example. If Fathers are witnessed degrading their Mothers, they'll learn this is acceptable and it absolutely IS NOT.

We must have an awareness of men who are victims of Domestic Abuse. This is NOT just men abusing women. Many men feel totally isolated and embarrassed that they are victims of domestic abuse.

Check in on those around you and trust your instincts. If you feel something isn't right, seek advice, even if you don't feel comfortable to broach the subject in person, reach out to REFUGE who will professionally guide you.

Thank you for your support and please cheer me on my way to raising £500.

One woman in four will experience domestic abuse at some point in her lifetime and on average one woman is killed every 5 days in England and Wales by a current or former partner.

Refuge is the largest single provider of specialist services to survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based abuse and runs the freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline that provides the first step to women escaping abuse. 

By kindly sponsoring me today you are helping to save and change the lives of thousands of women and their children. Thank you