Led By Dreams C.I.C is a local project supporting local people who are victims of domestic violence and abuse. It was started by a victim (or as we like to be known, ‘a survivor’) who has experienced the difficulty of reaching out for help when leaving an abusive relationship. Support exists but there are gaps in the current provision. We all know that domestic abuse exists but would everyone spot the signs of abuse? We have previously run training courses for charities, schools and medical staff so that they can recognise the signs and symptoms of domestic violence (DV) and abuse, resulting in a significant increase in the identification of victims. We would now like to extend the training programme to help more people recognise DV victims.
Led By Dreams aims to reduce the impact of domestic abuse in a number of ways:
- Offer help to professionals and the public in recognising the subtle (and not so subtle) signs and symptoms of domestic violence, providing an early warning system to identify victims and help them understand the choices available.
- Help DV victims put plans in place to safeguard themselves, reducing the burden on the NHS, social services, housing and emergency services.
- Provide a drop-in centre for those seeking support.
Domestic abuse has a ripple effect, tearing families apart. Victims need access to many services ranging from police, mental health, GPs, hospitals, medication, housing and much more. In order to achieve our aims, we need support from local people and organisations in the form of donations and fundraising. If you can help, please visit us at Trident House, Tavistock, PL19 0DG or email admin@ledbydreams.org or go to www.ledbydreams.org