A WOMAN from Chester has bravely spoken out after she managed to break free from a violent relationship.
Emma, 42, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, made the life-changing decision to walk away from the abuse after her partner threw a plate at her head during a heated row.
Now she has come forward to share her experiences as part of the Cheshire Police campaign “Speak Out”, aiming to help other victims in the area.
“I remember the first day I arrived at the refuge. I was really nervous,” said Emma.
“I had a few clothes with me and some money but that was it. It was a scary prospect as I didn’t know what to expect but the staff really help you out and make sure you have everything you need.”
She added: “My advice to other women would be don’t be scared of coming to a place like this. At first you do think, ‘what am I letting myself in for?’ But once you find out how friendly it is you won’t want to look back.
“Over time you do learn to stand on your own two feet. Coming to the refuge is the best move I ever made.”
Emma had suffered six months of verbal and physical abuse before she made the decision to get out.
Since leaving the refuge she has set up a new home. Now she is working alongside police in the Speak Out campaign to encourage other women who are being physically or verbally abused by someone close to them to seek help.
She said: “You have got to find the courage to break the cycle of abuse, whether that abuse is mental or physical, you have got to find the courage.”
Emma’s account has been uploaded onto Cheshire Police’s website at www. cheshire.police.uk
For more information contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or report any incidents online at www.cheshire.police. uk