I found myself, facing what I’d known for a few years I was in a mental abusive relationship which had progressed and got worse. During the first lockdown I couldn’t bury my head and keep busy as I was stuck with my thoughts and the realism of how bad my life had been, and how I was being treated was all so wrong but I’d come to accept it for kids etc, and never felt strong enough to leave. 

I’ve been belittled and made to feel worthless for years. I had no name on house hardly any access to money without being questioned. My family weren’t welcome at my house. My kids witnessed constant negative actions and harmful words. I thought that my teenager had come out the worst, but now since leaving I can see they are all damaged. 

I reached out to CarmDAS when I broke down to a Housing Officer as I had nowhere to go I didn’t know what to do. CarmDAS told me they would be able to help in lots of ways. 

The difference and reassurance straight away has helped me more than I ever realised. I still don’t think I’d have gone if it wasn’t for their help and always being on the end of a phone. 

I feel like a new person I’d say I’m 50% stronger than I was. I have signed up to a degree and feel much more confident in making choices. I have realised now I can do so much and that I’m not always wrong. 

I'm still in touch with CarmDAS and I’m currently doing the Own My Life course. I would actually like to work with Women’s Aid  in the future, I feel it is so under valued  I’m forever grateful to them and my fabulous support workers.

 "How I was being treated was all so wrong but I’d come to accept it for kids etc, and never felt strong enough to leave"

If this sounds similar to what you are experiencing or if you think you are in an abusive relationship then please call us on 01267 238410