Testimonials

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.

Working with Opoka has been a very positive experience. They provide a vital lifeline working with Polish victims of domestic abuse. Whenever I have referred clients to them, they have responded quickly and offered great support to our mutual clients, who without this service would be isolated and more at risk of harm. Opoka have assisted with translation for some of my most vulnerable clients and this support has made a huge difference to their safety and wellbeing. Offering the Freedom Programme online in Polish during Covid-19 has also been very helpful.

”This year has been a scary and uncertain time for victims of domestic abuse. Opoka has gone above and beyond to ensure the service is on hand to offer support to Polish women and children across Avon and Somerset during this challenging time and has proven to be a lifeline to victims and survivors.

During my time as PCC, I have met with Opoka several times, but in my most recent meeting with the service, I was lucky enough to hear about the fantastic work the whole team is undertaking to ensure victims are put first, are heard, and are supported. I know that Opoka will not judge victims; they are there to listen to survivors and offer the best support to help them cope and recover.

No matter the circumstances, Opoka is determined to reach out to as many Polish women and their families as to raise awareness of all forms of domestic abuse and make it clear, domestic abuse is unacceptable’