Opoka provided a lifeline to our client after they emerged from a situation of exploitation and abuse. Being able to access psychological support in their own language and receiving education around the issues of domestic violence, enabled our client to begin the journey of recovery that will empower them to make better relationship choices in the future.

We are so lucky in Bristol to have a specialist service that meets the needs of Polish women and children. It is vital to have local specialist services such as Opoka where women can access support by trained professionals in their own languages and who have an intimate understanding of their culture and the issues they might be facing. Without this kind of culturally specific support many women would not access any services at all to get the essential help they need.

Taunton Womens Aid is a small Somerset charity who make grants to organisations providing support for those suffering from or as a consequence of domestic abuse. We first came across Opoka several years ago when it made an application to us for funding to expand its Bristol based work into Somerset. We immediately liked the fact that they were working exclusively with Polish women in the community who through language difficulties and cultural differences were very isolated. We agreed a grant to enable the expansion of their work into Somerset since when we have come to appreciate the large numbers of people they are able to help, and the professionalism and caring approach of all the staff. Advice, counselling, support and literature are provided In Polish, and there is partnership working with government and other statutory bodies. Opoka continues to grow without losing its original drive and enthusiasm, yet developing a wide range of specialist support. We are happy to continue supporting its work.