Welcome to #NoSafeHaven

#NoSafeHaven grew out of my own harrowing experience of domestic abuse. Like many victim-survivors, I had to find a way of turning my pain into purpose, of channelling my survivor's rage into something that just might help others. We need an army to achieve our common goal: ending conditions that allow domestic abuse to thrive in our homes, families and communities.

As I embark on my own journey of healing loudly, I want you to know that you are not alone and nor am I. We stand together. I am at once a victim of domestic abuse and someone learning more about domestic abuse every day, primarily from other victim-survivors, but also from listening to and observing the reactions and attitudes of those around me.

I know my friends, family and colleagues are all thoroughly decent people, with strong moral values and the best of intentions, but I have still been surprised by some of the questions and attitudes I've encountered.

What's even more difficult to grapple with is my own, internalised misogyny and the myriad stereotypes and prejudices that I now see I have shared alongside so many others for most of my life. Finding myself in the midst of my own worst nightmare has been a humbling experience which has been a great gift as well as a burden and I'm so privileged to be sharing this journey towards healing with you.