Help a Survivor Rebuild After Escaping Domestic Violence

Hello, my name is Jane and I’m in my mid-50s. I’m reaching out to share my story and ask for your support during an incredibly difficult time in my life. A few years ago, my husband of over 30 years became suddenly physically violent. At first, I tried to forgive him, hoping things would get better. But his behaviour only worsened, escalating into severe verbal and psychological abuse. 

By early 2023, I knew I had to leave to protect myself. I initially sought refuge in a hospital, but while I was there, my husband managed to take everything I had from me. For several weeks, I stayed in the hospital, wearing only hospital clothes with no smartphone, no method of payment, no ID. 

Eventually, the police escorted me back to my house to gather some essentials but the ordeal was far from over. My husband had also taken my car and most of the furniture in the house, leaving me with almost nothing to start over. I then spent 11 months in a hotel, on sick leave, as I worked to secure a non-molestation order and an occupation order against him. 

Thankfully, the non molestation order was granted for a year, giving me some protection but it expires in 2 months. During this time, I also sought an occupation order to regain access to my home. However, my husband filed for divorce in another country, complicating matters further. 

Despite this, I managed to use the divorce proceedings to secure an order for him to leave our house, granting me sole residency. I fought this battle entirely on my own but the fight is not over yet.

I now need help to continue my legal battle and secure a divorce in my favour, whether in the country he filed for divorce or in the U.K. The past year has been financially devastating. Between accommodation fees, legal fees, maintenance, the mortgage on the house and utility bills I continued to pay while I was away, I’ve spent over £80,000. I’m now asking for your support to help cover the ongoing legal costs in both the U.K. and abroad, as well as to ensure my physical safety as I rebuild my life. 

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a huge difference in helping me move forward and secure my future. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer. Your kindness and generosity mean everything to me.

With gratitude,


Jane