My experience

Here is Rachel’s story – her name has been changed to protect her identity. Rachel was 14 years old when she used the CYPVA service she had witnessed a lot of the domestic violence on her mother and she needed support herself.

As soon as I met my CYPVA the trust was instant, we looked at how to cope not only for me but for my sibling, I always felt safe with her. She never pressured me, she guided me through the sessions and we would end up talking about what was going on and then discuss ways to deal with the situation.

When I was older I got into a violent relationship, my CYPVA worked with me around healthy relationships, both in terms of friendships, family and relationships which has been really good.

I still have separation anxiety from my mum, and have had a few things lately to deal with but now I know not to let things build up and if I need help I ask for it. My CYPVA has always been very supportive not just of me but for my whole family she really looked after us.

When you talk to Rachel it is clear that she has had a lot to cope with in her young life. Rachel should be very proud of all the progress she has made, there are still some ongoing challenges, but Rachel has the tools to deal with them now and knows we are always here to help if she needs it.

Domestic abuse

Created by the Scottish Government

Remember you can also message a member of the Safer team with a question you may have or advice you may need - askbe@safer.gg

Call us anytime

01481 721999 (24/7)

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 999

Useful links

Safer.gg main website

BeSafer is part of the charity Safer, which specialises in supporting and empowering victims of domestic abuse. The service is run by our dedicated team, including our Child and Young Person Violence Advisors (CYPVAs), who work directly with children and young people affected by domestic abuse, whether in their own homes or in their intimate relationships.

Alongside them, our Domestic and Sexual Abuse Education Workers deliver age-appropriate sessions in schools from Year 6 to Year 13, helping young people understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. Together, they provide a caring, all-round approach to supporting and educating young people.

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