I just love this image taken by a participant during our therapeutic photography workshop with New Beginnings; a peer support domestic abuse charity supporting women in Harrogate and Craven.
We began the session indoors, most of the participants had never met up in person before and we used some mindful photography exercises to get to know each other. Many are undertaking the course Own my Life; an opportunity supporting people to regain their identity following domestic abuse.
Why do I work with survivors of domestic abuse?
Did you know….Every 3 days a woman is killed by a man in the UK?
Source: https://www.unwomenuk.org/16-days-activism/
Domestic abuse isn’t just physical; it’s a slow erosion of identity. Through control and gaslighting, abusers create doubt, making people question their reality and worth. Over time, victims may lose sight of who they truly are. Simple decisions can be hard to make, trust is eroded and self worth eradicated.
Years of manipulation can be devastating.
It is important that we support these people to reclaim their voice. Rebuild their identity.
They deserve to be seen.
They deserve to be heard.
They won’t stay silent any longer.
Therapeutic Photography can help and we’ve proved that we’re having an impact in North Yorkshire.
What did we do?
We ventured outside and used some simple mindful photography techniques to explore the surroundings. One woman borrowed the DSLR Canon camera which was funded by North Yorkshire Council – what a difference it made to her day, here are some of her beautiful images.
Some feedback from the day.
We have also been working online with a number women affected by domestic abuse. If you are interested in therapeutic photography and domestic abuse drop me a line. In January we will sharing with you a video by Inspired Youth which highlights the emotional and motivational story of one of our participants.
Thank you New Beginnings, Rise to Thrive, North Yorkshire Council and Better Connect.
Support can be found at New Beginnings or IDAS.
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