Victim of harrowing domestic violence ordeal bravely speaks out and bids to help others
A RESIDENT who became a victim of domestic violence bravely spoke out about her harrowing experiences as she bids to help others experiencing such abuse.
The 27-year-old Muir tenant told how she was able to receive the help she needed in order to bring an end to the abuse she was suffering and enhance her quality of life.
Her candid interview reveals the campaign of both mental and physical abuse she experienced for years at the hands of her former partner, and how she is turning her life around and attempting to provide a springboard for others to so the same.
“I was vulnerable to a violent partner,” the resident told Muir.
“It all started with jealousy and then it built up progressively for almost six years – up to the point when he almost strangled me to death.”
Her partner began to take control of her phone and smashing things up in her house before launching verbal attacks, insults and degrading her, sometimes in front of family, friends and even at her place of work.
“He began controlling my money and isolating me from people and family members so I became more dependent on him,” the victim said. “He even took the keys to my home off me.
“The abuse gradually became physical. It started with pushing and pulling, then he started slapping me, punching me and strangling me.
“At first it would just happen when we’d both had a few drinks so I struggled to piece things together, but it started to result in really bad attacks.
“If I tried to leave he would follow me and kick-off in front of friends or colleagues.
“He assaulted me about 30 times that I can remember.
“Then one night he smashed up everything in my flat, fractured my eye socket and almost strangled me to death.
“My mum was worried he was going to kill me. I was unrecognisable.
“By this time the police had been made aware of what was going on because neighbours and family had been reporting incidents.
“When he attacked me again I called the police myself. They could hear him in the background threatening to set me alight.”
Police intervention helped the resident to get the foothold she needed in order for the violence to stop.
When Muir became aware of what had been happening, the housing association also provided its support, offering to enhance security at the victim’s home.
“Muir reassured me and created a safe environment for me in my home,” she said.
“My Tenancy Services Officer and Income Services Officer were very supportive and would often leave notes if I was out when they came to visit, just to make sure I was ok.”
The resident used various support groups and helplines to aid her in dealing with her circumstances, including www.freedomprogramme.co.uk, www.abuse-survivors.org.uk/real-life-support, and www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk
The resident has previously undertaken drama therapy courses at university, and along with her mother, who is qualified to work with domestic violence victims, hopes they can make a difference to others.
“I really do think things happen for a reason,” she said. “Through my own experiences I hope I can help others.
“Victims can be scared to come forward and get support.
“Now I am really, really happy. My life has completely changed.”
If you're concerned a Muir resident may be suffering from domestic abuse, or any other form of abuse, report it here: www.muir.org.uk/report-concern-for-a-resident