I currently work for Scarborough and Ryedale Carers Resource; supporting unpaid family carers. I love my work, and I love helping people.

My mum’s first marriage was horribly abusive. She was beaten on a daily basis and hospitalised on several occasions. I have seen the ongoing effect this experience has had, not only on my mum, but on our whole family. I chose to become an IDAS Champion to promote this lifesaving service and to highlight to people that domestic abuse can affect ANYONE, irrespective of age, gender or social status. Domestic abuse takes many forms and is something that can happen to anyone, but it is also something that anyone can take steps to change by becoming more aware of the issue and to help us promote local and national services. I would encourage everyone to learn more about domestic abuse and the services available to support victims.

With the training IDAS has provided, I am much more confident in recognising the signs of domestic abuse and I am confident in handling the situation professionally.

I work with a lot of carers who are quite vulnerable and issues around domestic abuse are not uncommon; however, with the training IDAS have provided I am much more confident in recognising the signs of domestic abuse and I am confident in handling the situation professionally. Becoming an IDAS champion will allow you to do the same. It’s easy to assume that this “will never happen to me” or “this doesn’t happen in my community”, but I can assure you it can and it does. Domestic abuse can affect us all, but if we all make a stand together we can make a real difference and make sure that no one suffers in silence.

Anyone can become an IDAS Champion and we welcome applications from members of the community, professionals and survivors. Apply here