Last December, life felt like it had reached its darkest point for Emma*, a 50-year-old woman who had been in an abusive marriage for many years. After being admitted to hospital over Christmas, she found herself alone, vulnerable and with nowhere to turn.

When the hospital staff became aware of Emma’s situation at home, they contacted Oasis, and a support worker quickly stepped in, determined to make sure that Emma wouldn’t have to return to her unsafe environment.

Through Oasis, Emma accessed vital mental health support, received essential clothing and toiletries and was guided through the complex process of applying for Universal Credit. Most importantly, Emma was found somewhere safe to stay  – a refuge in Dover.

“That refuge saved my life.”

In January, Emma moved into her new home. Exhausted, broken and afraid, she was greeted by two incredible women who welcomed her with warmth and kindness. “I can easily say that the day I moved into the safe house in Dover my whole life changed for the better,” Emma says.

The refuge itself became a sanctuary. Emma finally felt safe and secure. Having a private flat, complete with a bathroom and kitchenette, meant the world to her. Managing chronic illnesses and dietary restrictions is difficult enough, but having her own space allowed her to regain a sense of control –  and dignity. For the first time in a long while, she felt settled. She even started calling it home  –  “it’s a pleasure coming back to my flat.”

“My support worker is my guardian angel”

Over time, Emma grew close to her support worker. She explains, “She is more like my best friend; I can tell her all my problems and she will support me. She’s a truly beautiful person. She’s my guardian angel.”

Emma finally feels listened to, respected and cared for. The techniques she has learned through Oasis’ counselling sessions have helped her manage her stress and anxiety.

Without Oasis, Emma dreads to think where she would be right now. “Oasis are literally saving women’s lives. I don’t even want to think what would have happened to me without them.”

Today, she feels safe, settled and most importantly – hopeful about the future. Reflecting on her journey, she recently said, “I used to dread going home. I’d sit on the bus and worry about what I was walking into – but now I love to go home”.

Learn more about our work with women in local communities.

* name changed to protect identity