My name is a Rania, I am 22 and I have been working with Solace for two months. I moved to the UK when I was 6 on a Family Visa, I have no access to benefits. When I fell pregnant I moved in with my partner. The emotional abuse had been present throughout our relationship, however his controlling behaviour heightened, I was no longer in control of what I wore. He became more and more intimidating. He showed no care for me or my son.
Before I made contact with Solace, all the services told me I was Standard Risk from my partner. I was told countless times that the issue in my relationship was standard arguments. Only when I spoke to Solace for the first time did I feel I was being listened to and my feelings were being validated. It was so overwhelming hearing that women should not be forced to stay in an abusive relationship.
I was reliant on my partner for my visa and to live. Thankfully Solace worked with a team to secure accommodation and money for me and my baby and my 3 year old. They are helping me to obtain secure immigration status as well as supporting me through my emotional abuse.
It’s amazing how much better you feel when someone is on your side. I always wonder where I would be if I didn’t have someone from Solace to hold my hand in moments or fight on my behalf when no one thought I mattered.