One in Twelve - Zoe and Amanda’s Story

On 23rd July 2024, the first National Policing Statement on Violence Against Women and Girls was published. The report highlighted that at least 1 in 12 women will experience male violence each year, though the true figure is likely far higher. We remain committed to ensuring that both this report - and the realities it exposes - are not forgotten.

Usually, this feature shares the story of a woman who has recently accessed WMWA’s services. This month, however, we wanted to highlight the courage of survivors Zoe Watts and Amanda Stanhope, who recently spoke publicly about the abuse they experienced while unconscious at the hands of former partners.

Zoe & Amanda have since launched #EndEyeCheck, a survivor-led campaign calling for stronger protections around drug-facilitated sexual violence and the online sharing of abuse material. Inspired in part by the bravery of Gisèle Pelicot, their powerful testimonies highlight the importance of survivor voices, specialist support services, and continued action to tackle violence against women and girls.

Connecting with Communities at the Living Well Event

West Mercia Women's Aid recently attended the Living Well event at The Hive, hosted by Worcestershire County Council.

The event brought together a wide range of local organisations focused on health, wellbeing, and community support. Throughout the day, visitors accessed health checks, advice from Adult Services, and information from a variety of local charities and services.

WMWA hosted a stall sharing information about our services across Worcestershire, helping to raise awareness of the support available to survivors of domestic abuse and strengthening links with partner organisations.

Wye Women’s WI Raise Funds and Donate Welcome Bags for Refuge Residents

West Mercia Women's Aid was delighted to visit Wye Women's WI in April, where our CEO attended as a guest speaker to talk about the realities of domestic abuse and the work of WMWA.

Members of the group created handmade drawstring toiletry bags for women and children arriving in refuge, helping new residents feel welcomed and supported during difficult times. The WI also raised £105.50 for WMWA and an incredible 24 members signed up to become supporters and receive our newsletter.

The evening was a wonderful example of community spirit, solidarity, and women supporting women - making a real difference for those who need it most.

Standing with Migrant Survivors

West Mercia Women's Aid shares the concerns raised by Women's Aid Federation of England following recent media coverage relating to migrant survivors of domestic abuse and immigration advice.

We are deeply concerned by narratives that risk undermining or discrediting survivors of domestic abuse, particularly women with insecure immigration status who already face significant barriers when seeking safety and support. Many migrant survivors experience heightened levels of fear, isolation, and coercion, with perpetrators often using immigration status as a tool of control to prevent women from accessing help.

As Women’s Aid stated:

“The sad reality is that many migrant survivors who are experiencing abuse are too scared about deportation to seek help or to call the police… provisions to ensure women have their migration status considered within the context of domestic abuse they are experiencing are essential and life-saving.”

Support pathways such as the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC) and Domestic Violence Indefinite Leave to Remain (DVILR) route remain vital protections for survivors who may otherwise be unable to access refuge and specialist support safely.

At WMWA, we remain committed to supporting all survivors of domestic abuse and to challenging harmful narratives that risk further marginalising vulnerable women.