End all forms of violence against all women and girls everywhere

This is a subject very close to my heart and if you’d like to know why, sign up for my fortnightly love letter here. As it is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I needed to share my thoughts.

It certainly came as no surprise to see that there was a 33% rise in domestic violence reports under the COVID-19 lockdowns last year. I am finding it quite difficult to find sufficient words to describe how I feel about this situation. To see the amount of women (and sometimes men) living a life in despair and terror is heartbreaking.

Also, with the huge rise in domestic abuse cases being dropped in England and Wales shows that the situation is still not being taken seriously which quite frankly dismays me – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-58910802.

Victims of alleged domestic abuse are seeing their cases dropped at a rapidly increasing rate, according to the BBC.

The time limit to charge common assault – including instances of domestic violence – is six months. Nearly 13,000 cases were dropped in England and Wales over five years after the authorities hit that limit. Campaigners say women are being denied justice and the police and prosecutors should be given more time.

What’s the answer?

As you might know by now, my message is that by changing our thinking, we can change our lives. But, I still think we need to speak out against any injustices, bullying and abuse in the world whilst still being mindful of the positive outcome we want.

So rather than just fighting domestic abuse, we can focus on a world where all humans respect and love each other. Where we accept each others’ differences and seek to heal our own mental wounds rather than lash out and make others suffer.

I’ll be honest, it feels like a big ask but has fighting war worked? I’d rather put my attention on a peaceful and loving world.

So, in my Facebook community, Love Yourself – Women Inspiring Women (to join, follow this link) on Thursday, 28th October, I will be sharing a live meditation focusing totally on women and girls who are victims of domestic abuse and how they can live a life of freedom and where they truly thrive rather than just survive (just about) day to day.

To give some practical help, I’d like to share these numbers for anyone you know who might be in need or even if you’re in need. I am also available for support if I can be of help.

Domestic Abuse National helplines

Domestic Violence Assist – Specialises in assistance to obtain emergency injunctions from being further abused.

Phone: 0800 195 8699

National Centre for Domestic Violence – Specialises in assistance to get emergency injunctions from being further abused.

Phone: 0800 970 2070

Women’s Aid Domestic Violence Helpline – Free 24-hour national helpline run by Women’s Aid and Refuge.

Phone: 0808 2000 247

Hourglass – The Hourglass confidential helpline provides information and support to anyone concerned about harm, abuse or exploitation of an older person.

Phone: 0808 808 8141

Men’s Advice Line – Confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse.

Phone: 0808 801 0327

National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline – Emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people.

Phone: 0800 999 5428

National Stalking Helpline – Guidance on the law, how to report stalking, gathering evidence, staying safe and reducing the risk.

Phone: 0808 802 0300

Victim Support – Free and confidential help to victims of crime, witnesses, their family and friends.

Phone: 0808 1689 111

I am also available to talk and not just during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so please get in contact to see how I can help with this this link