Interview: “The hardest thing is to leave everything behind and leave the home…”

Mrs Aneta, you experienced domestic violence. Would you like to share your story?

Yes. I personally experienced and survived life-threatening and sustained domestic violence during my first marriage in Poland (1990-2002). After years of suffering from this abuse, I finally found the inner strength and dared to free myself from it. That was 19 years ago. Picking up the shattered pieces of my life and soul, I started a new life with four children, who were 11, 9, 6, and 2 years old at the time. What I have achieved because of that decision and who I am now, I owe to my children, who every day were and still are the reason I fought for a better tomorrow for them and for myself.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, call: 0300 365 1700. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.