Aoife’s Story

Aoife’s Story

B efore coming into the refuge I lived with my mother and young daughter. I had ended the relationship with my daughter’s father and moved in with my mum due to the abuse and violence I suffered from him. I now feel really sad to say that I suffered verbal, emotional...
Tinu’s Story

Tinu’s Story

I fled Nigeria after my parents were kidnapped and murdered. Fearing for my life, I left my three-month-old with my aunt and made the journey to England. It was not an easy decision, and I still don’t know where the courage came from but every step of the way I told...
Adanna’s Story

Adanna’s Story

I was born in a country on the west of Africa and was introduced to my now ex-husband – the perpetrator – as soon as I left school.  His family was happy for us to be married, as his family believed I could provide lots of children. I was 10 years younger than...
Fatima’s Story

Fatima’s Story

I contacted The Haven while still living with my boyfriend, after my neighbours gave me the helpline number. My boyfriend had been subjecting me to “rough sex” persistently. The neighbours heard my screams and advised me to get help. I was allocated an Independent...