It’s been a journey of two parts for me. My first journey was that of being a wife and mother, then 9 years of being a victim of domestic abuse. I escaped with the help of the police, to be placed in a refuge - one of the first run by women’s aid in Wolverhampton. Things were basic in the 70’s, which although the refuge offered shelter, it offered very little else. Having taken three years to keep safe by moving home 4 times, I eventually settled in Halesowen.

This brings me to the second half of my journey, when I first got introduced to CHADD,  which in turn some how brings me some where close to my beginning, but in a different role.  When the refuge opened its doors in 1984, I arrived as a volunteer, not knowing what I might do. I was feeling isolated, with no self worth, and wondering what on earth I could do with my life. I was encouraged to share my experiences of what it was like to be a survivor (not a victim) by my social worker at the time, and the staff and management committee of the refuge (which Jane Clarke is still a long standing employee of). My ideas and thoughts from my past experience, were taken seriously. I was listened too, and my ideas and thoughts helped bring about various changes to the running of the refuge facility, which at that time housed 6 families in the one house.

It was a wonderful feeling being taken notice of, having my opinions valued, and my advice put into practise. This was a productive personal turning point, it made all my negative thoughts and feelings turn into positive and supportive actions. Many years later and here I am today!! 2012 and the manager of the refuge still working and sharing ideas with CHADD, and looking forward to the future and the opening of New Beginnings.