Resident Stories
At Sheffield Women’s Aid, our support extends to women from various cultural and societal backgrounds. We are committed to nurturing our residents’ journeys towards self-reliance, renewed self-assurance, and a hopeful path ahead.
The stories shared by our residents shed light on the extraordinary challenges they have faced. Through our supportive presence, we strive to empower them as they rebuild their lives, providing a safe space for personal growth and healing.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the situations described in these stories and wish to seek support, our resources page can direct you to the most appropriate support agency.
K’s Story
K, along with her three children, sought refuge at SWA after enduring years of domestic abuse from her partner. Relocating from another area, K faced anxiety about adjusting to a new city and finding suitable schooling for her children, especially one with additional needs. Overwhelmed and withdrawn, K received space and time to settle into her new environment. SWA offered vital support, arranging activities for her children and enabling her to have much-needed personal time. Assistance was also provided in securing school and nursery placements, as well as legal action against her partner. Concerned about her partner's potential contact, SWA collaborated with a local solicitor to ensure limited and supervised interactions. With charges successfully pressed, K gained newfound confidence to voice her wishes. SWA further aided K in clearing partner-related debts and establishing her own bank account. Dedicated workers at SWA, including a children's worker and parenting support worker, facilitated stronger bonds and routines with K's children. The positive impact became evident as the children displayed happiness and relief from the abuse. Notably, one child began to open up about the abuse in confidential sessions, expressing feelings through drawings.
S’ Story
S entered the UK on a spousal visa and quickly realized that living with her extended family and husband would expose her to daily abuse. Fearing deportation if she left and struggling with limited English, S faced repeated threats from her husband and in-laws who retained her passport. Worries of being trapped due to pregnancy further weighed on her. After a severe incident, police were called by concerned neighbours who recognized the abuse. For her safety, S was relocated to SWA's refuge. Isolated and anxious, she gradually forged friendships, gaining daily confidence. SWA assisted her in securing the right to stay in the UK, granting access to benefits and local training. Engaging in cultural events, S even aided in their preparation. Progressing at her own pace, she eventually became more comfortable with independent living and financial management, thanks to SWA's guidance on budgeting, shopping, and cooking. S grew increasingly confident in her decision-making through consistent meeting attendance, participation in group programs, and social activities. With time, she felt empowered to voice her preference for her post-refuge residence, illustrating a reassertion of control over her life. Eventually, S left the refuge.
M’s Story
In a bid to escape both financial and emotional abuse inflicted by her former partner, who was the father of her 2-month-old daughter, M embarked on a journey. M was kidnapped and trafficked to the UK for prostitution by a family member in the EU, leading to profound and sustained trauma. Social services intervened, and M grappled with the fear of losing her daughter, having already lost custody of her three other children due to trafficking. Additionally, untreated Hepatitis B and D posed health concerns. Working collaboratively, Sheffield Women’s Aid coordinated with external services, such as City Hearts, Snowdrop, and Archer Project, to provide M with comprehensive support, supplementing SWA's efforts. Financially, M was assisted in transitioning from maternity pay to Universal Credit, alongside applications for enhanced DLA and PIP, improving her financial stability. Legal guidance empowered her to press assault charges against her ex-partner, leading to a non-molestation order for five years and no contact with her daughter. M's testimony required newfound confidence, fuelled by the support she received. Collaborative efforts with staff bolstered her self-esteem, English proficiency, and overall confidence. M secured independent housing, a transition tailored to her pace, paving the way for future planning with her daughter. Grateful for SWA's role, M referred to it as "the family she never had," nurturing her bond with her child.
Y’s Story
Y had been subjected to physical and emotional abuse by her partner for several years, with the severity escalating recently. Her frequent calls to the police and a serious assault prompted her decision to seek refuge for safety. Concerned about her two pet dogs, whom her partner had harmed before, Y hesitated leaving their home. However, learning that SWA accepted pets while other refuges couldn't, she found the decision easier. Her refuge accommodations offered a self-contained flat in a serene area with nearby outdoor spaces and walks, contributing to her healing process. Participating actively, Y attended group sessions, resident meetings, and engaged in activities. She even assisted SWA in staff recruitment, motivating her to consider a return to work. Y received support to maximize entitled benefits, establish debt repayment plans, and eliminate some debts stemming from her abusive partner. As well as exploring health and beauty courses at local colleges, she shared her skills by teaching cooking and baking to fellow residents. With her dogs, Y has since secured her own home, marking a positive stride forward.
X’s Story
X had endured physical, emotional, and financial abuse, alongside daily control over her choices. Upon seeking refuge at SWA, she initially projected independence, wanting to reclaim her autonomy after years of manipulation. Over time, her struggles with alcohol dependency became evident, often leading to encounters with her abusive partner. Staff recognized her need for support in managing alcohol use and navigating coercive interactions. Collaboration with law enforcement and an alcohol-focused service enabled her to regain control. X's case was referred to MARAC, aligning various services to address her risks. With guidance, she linked her alcohol use to the loss of her son years ago and sought assistance to reduce dependency. Engaging in SWA's group programs, X explored her trauma and emotions, gradually seeking help. After months of support, she felt ready for independent living. SWA assisted her in securing housing, providing grants for furnishing, and ensuring a successful transition to living on her own.
Contact Us
Springtime Lodge: 0114 236 6423
Jane Ashton House: 0114 244 6573
mail@sheffieldwomensaid.org.uk