What does ‘Safe Space’ mean to me?
First in our 16 Days of Activism series is a personal insight into what makes a truly safe space for one individual, that we think sums it up perfectly.
What does ‘Safe Space’ mean to me?
First in our 16 Days of Activism series is a personal insight into what makes a truly safe space for one individual, that we think sums it up perfectly.
Unless you have experienced what it is like to feel unsafe, you may never truly understand the value of ‘Safe Spaces’. It is an actual supportive and loving space where you can remember to breathe freely. You can allow yourself to permit oxygen to fill your lungs to its capacity and come alive again.
It is a place to take the weight and burden off of your shoulders even for a short while because dropping that heavy load altogether could mean losing your beloved children, your home or your life. It is a place where you can remember that it is Ok to value yourself, still smile and be amazed to catch yourself off-guard by laughter that was buried deep inside of you. It is a safe place for healing, restoration and liberation without judgement and condemnation.
A ‘Safe Space’ is not just a discreetly tucked away building with security measures in place. A ‘Safe Space’ is the people hosting and working in that special space. It is a group of incredible, caring, trauma-informed, experienced people. They know what you have been through and what you are going through but more importantly they know where you need to get to and how to help you get there!!!
Voices was my Safe Space.
This service has saved my mental health and has provided a safe service whilst helping with coping mechanisms for the future.
- Lena
Latest news
Voices have contributed to the new BANES Domestic Abuse leaflet.
This leaflet has been compiled for those exsperiencing domestic abuse and seeking support in the BANES area. There is a comprehensive list of contacts for local and national organisations offering a range of support.
Local Family Justice Board at University of the West of England Law School took place on Friday 19 May
A groundbreaking conference by the Local Family Justice Board at University of the West of England Law School took place on Friday 19 May, looking at how to improve responses to domestic abuse and support for adult and child survivors in family court processes. Our director Ursula spoke about family courts, coercive control and lived…
Cycle challenge in aid of domestic abuse charity
by Tamsin and Hannah (May / Hughes) About We have set ourselves the challenge of cycling over 680 miles across France and to fundraise for domestic abuse charity Voices. We’re new to bike touring and have been training for this challenge since September 2022. You can donate here: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/lostinfrance/ We hope our fundraiser will help…