I am a survivor of domestic violence.
My story started in 2019 on my 30th birthday.
I was at a local pub celebrating with friends, I met a guy, and by the following week we met up.
I was a single mum and was vulnerable. Perfect prey for an abuser.
The first incident came about 2 months after we met. He became jealous over the smallest things, he pushed me to the floor, I forgave him.
As the relationship went on the abuse got worse, not just the physical but the coherence control aspect too.
After multiple bruises a burst eardrum and complete mental control, it all came to an end in early 2021, when he attacked me for the final time.
Unfortunately I had broken ribs and was beaten black and blue for around 4 hours straight. He hid my keys and my phone, I had no way to escape.
Fortunately he ended the beating, but I was in so much pain, I was so dependant on him after it all happened.
By day 4 I was in a lot of pain I knew I had to go to the hospital. However he made me feel as if all of this was my fault and I went to the hospital completely brainwashed, I didn’t tell anyone what really happened, I said I had an accident at work, and I was sent on my way with some antibiotics and pain killers.
I knew I had to get out some how.
Police officers were already aware of what was going on but the cohesive control aspect of the abuse makes you lie.
However, I knew enough was enough now, it’s was simply a matter of life or death.
I sent a text message to a police officer asking them to call me tomorrow, and please do not reply to this message as my abuser would constantly check my phone.
I asked her to call me tomorrow when I knew my abuser would be out.
She rang me, he was arrested from his place of work and remanded into custody.
After long and harrowing court proceedings, he finally pleaded guilty to several counts of assault, 2 counts of ABH, and coherence and controlling behaviour.
He was sentenced to 3 years and 9 months.
I want to share my story to raise awareness.
My abuser is due for release, week pending the 16th of January.
I have already worked with local and national media companies to share my story.
I want to help as many people as I possibly can.
I hope you read my story and want to help too.
I am now in a loving relationship and the happiest I have ever been.
This is not the case for all women and really feel that sharing my story will help in some way .
Kind regards Hannah from Northamptonshire
