What is your involvement with Solace?
I am an Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) team manager. I started initially as a volunteer at a drop-in centre for Camden Women’s Aid. My first paid role was at a drop-in service and I worked on the first advice line which was run by just one person so it was much smaller than it is today! I managed the resettlement service and second stage refuge in self-contained apartments. I covered the Enfield Outreach and was a Support Worker for Camden. I then moved to Rape Crisis and became an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) and now I’m a Team Manager.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I have a great team of women I work with. All the ISVAs are amazing and so committed to the work. When I started, the role wasn’t as recognised as it is today and I have loved being a part of developing the role in London and nationally for the Rape Crisis Centres and Solace.
Can you describe Solace in 3 words?
Solidarity
Sisterhood
Friendship
If you had one wish for women and girls for the next 50 years, what would you ask for?
Ability to be yourself