Here we talk to Clare* about her life growing up and how she ended up coming to our DIVA group that supports young mums affected by domestic abuse.

After witnessing domestic violence as a child, she thought it was an acceptable way to behave, regularly attacking her mum as a teenager.

She was referred to St Michael’s by social workers when she had a baby 5 years ago.

At the time she was 16 and being domestically abused by her long-term boyfriend but she couldn’t see it or see herself as a victim.

Hear her talk about how support from St Michael’s has changed her and her son’s life.

How the support of our team, who listened and didn’t judge, have got her to where she is today.

Witnessing a Dad or partner being violent or abusing a mother can lead young boys thinking its an acceptable way to behave towards women and their future partners. We see this alot with the people we work with. Clare’s story highlights another, less talked about angle- the impact it can also have on a young girls. 

Her story also help us see the complexity of the issues the young parents we work with face from domestic abuse to mental health issues and wider issues around lack of money and feeling judged. 

The way she talks about our team, and in particular Michelle, show how our teams are able to build strong and lasting bonds with these young women-helping break cycles of disadvantage and building confidence. Having someone on yourside, fighting for you and believing in you is instrumental to turning your life around.   

To listen to her speak visit our sound cloud page  

*Names have been changed.