Sally
Hi Sally, thanks for your time. Did you have any worries about meeting the outreach worker at Yada?
I don't think so, although I always get nervous meeting new people.
What do you feel helped you to be able to have that support with us? Was there anything we did that helped or could have done better?
I did feel really, really comfortable because I was scared to do the things that I was going to do by myself, so it was nice to have the support and somebody there with me.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about reaching out for support but hasn't yet?
I would say it is a really big step to take but it is definitely worth it.
What would have made it easier to connect with us sooner?
I think, a little more confidence in myself, and I think as well like we have spoken about before, it wasn't me who found out that you were a service I could use so it would have made it easier if i was aware.
As a service we always want to walk alongside women and meet them where they are at, and not come across as a ‘fixer’ or ‘rescuer’, but actually we recognise that you are the expert of your story. You are so valuable, and your story is yours and it’s precious, and you don't owe it to us to share unless you want to.
As you received our support, did you always feel in control of the support you were receiving?
Yes, definitely, I know everything was kept confidential, and you were always being clear explaining your role, what you would be able to keep confidential and what you couldn't - for example, safeguarding - this helped me feel safe.
If you could describe yada in one word what would you say?
Lifesaver.
How would you describe us to a woman possibly stuck and hasn't yet reached out?
I would say that the situation can be really lonely and really isolating and scary, and that, with me, it's really helped me realise my value and worth and how I should be treated and respected - something that will change your life forever.
How would you describe your journey with Yada?
My journey has been a long journey and it's been really hard at times. Every step I have taken further has made me stronger, and I have done lots of work on myself because of you guys.