After twelve years, 32-year-old Emily* found the courage to ask the police if what she was experiencing was abuse. When they confirmed it was, she was referred to Staying Put— marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Originally from overseas, she had moved to the UK to marry her partner after meeting him online. Over time, the relationship became controlling and harmful. When she reached out for help, Staying Put’s team responded quickly, completing an urgent assessment and identifying her as high risk. She was allocated advocates from the Community Services Team who worked together to build a tailored plan that reflected both her immediate safety needs and her longer-term goals.
You can make a difference
You can make a difference to women’s lives like Emily, by donating to Staying Put and enabling us to continue supporting people experiencing domestic abuse.
At first, she was still living with the perpetrator. With guidance and support, she moved in with a friend. A personalised safety plan was developed, safety apps discussed, and target hardening measures were provided to help her feel more secure.
The team arranged immigration advice for her to support her with an Indefinite Leave to Remain application. She also secured a Non-Molestation Order through the courts. Housing options were explored, including trans-inclusive refuges, and she was supported to speak with Shelter about past tenancy concerns.
Recognising the impact of long-term abuse on her mental health, we liaised with talking therapy services and shared crisis support options. She also joined our LGBT+ Peer Support Group, created to help LGBT+ survivors feel seen, supported, and connected. Over time, she began to feel safer. She told us her panic was starting to fade, and that she was beginning to enjoy simple things like spending time with friends. Trust remained difficult, but she felt hopeful. She said, “It’s good to speak to someone who is actually listening and understanding.’
Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference tailored, inclusive, and flexible support can make in helping survivors rebuild their lives on their own terms.
*Name has been changed
Need support?
LGBT+ people can experience domestic abuse like anyone else but there are additional ways LGBT+ people can experience it. Read how we can support you here.
You can make a difference
You can make a difference to women’s lives like Emily, by donating to Staying Put and enabling us to continue supporting people experiencing domestic abuse.