A picture of Carol, a young woman who was supported by Black Country Women's Aid

Survivor Voices

Rape and sexual violence

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Carol’s Story

Carol was supported by our Independent Sexual Violence Advice (ISVA) Service.

 

“I have been receiving support from my ISVA since September 2016. She helped me to make a decision about reporting by giving me all my options. This made me feel like I had a choice and had to do what is right for me. She talked to me about the impact of the sexual violence and helped explain that everything I was feeling was totally normal. She listened to me and did not judge me or assume how I was feeling she just sat with me and helped me make sense of what had happened. I felt listened to and believed which was probably the most important part for me.

 

She was always very patient with me. I felt free to speak, cry or express my emotions without feeling silly. There were times when I felt unsure about how I was feeling but she gave nothing but comfort and reassurance. I quickly realized that she was someone who really cared. She was trustworthy and knowledgeable about issues of abuse and violence.

 

I can honestly say that my experience of abuse has been the worst thing I have ever been through in my entire life and without the help of my ISVA and counsellor I’m not sure I would have made it out the other side. I feel I owe them so much. The service has been invaluable to me – it saved my life. I will remain ever grateful and I feel so blessed to have had this support.”

 

We have changed Carol’s name to protect her identity.

 

 

Do you need help?

To find out more about our ISVA service and how it can support you please click here.

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