"IN my eyes these women are not victims. They are not survivors. They are heroes."

This was how Cumbria's police and crime commissioner Peter McCall referred to the recent graduates from Barrow-based centre, Women's Community Matters.

There were 12 women in total who graduated in November 2016 and the atmosphere in the room when they spoke about their journey was one of emotion, admiration and love.

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Development leader Katy Scott, 25, from Barrow, began by welcoming friends and family and describing the special bond she has made with the women who were graduating.

She said: “I have been constantly taken aback by the courage of our 12 graduates as I’ve worked with them in one-to-one sessions and courses.

"I have learnt from them that I can survive unimaginable suffering as long as there are people beside me.

"I have learnt that shame is beaten by airing it with those we love and trust. I have learnt the power of community and, most importantly, the power of sharing our story.

"I have learnt that human beings are inherently kind, compassionate and loving, that we want nothing but the best for each other and it’s only our own pain or fear that stops us from achieving that.

"I have learnt that believing in someone helps them to start believing in themselves and nothing can stop them once they own this knowledge.”

Katy's speech, in which she opened up about the struggles she has faced in her own past, reduced the room to tears. However, although parts of Katy's story were harrowing, they were mainly tears of triumph because Katy has not only conquered her own demons but has become a light and inspiration to women across the Furness area. It is her very ethos that makes Women's Community Matters such a pillar of our society here in south Cumbria.

As several of the graduates opened up about their own stories, what was apparent was that each and every one felt they had found a sanctuary and haven in the Duke Street centre.

Women's Community Matters is a second home to many and a safe place for those who are afraid. Katy, who works closely with all women who come to the centre, is like a sister to many and it was obvious during the graduation that she and her colleagues Rebecca Rawlings, the centre manager, and Rachel Hogarth, project worker, are seen as angels.

Graduates spoke in depth about their struggles with issues such as domestic violence, depression and drug abuse.

Lynne Morgan, of Barrow, said: "Three years ago I was diagnosed with a brain condition and then two years ago my mum passed away. I felt as though I had nobody to turn to and eventually I had to give up my job because my illness was so bad.

WATCH THE GRADUATES IN THIS VIDEO:

"Coming to the Women's Community Matter's centre has changed me. I am a different person now - a more positive person. Whenever I am feeling down or low I pop into the centre, have a brew in my hand and immediately feel as though I am among friends.

"If I had to pick any woman that I admire, it would be Katy [Scott]. She is amazing at what she does, she is welcoming and would never judge anybody."

The centre teaches women to build their self esteem back up and start rebuilding their lives after going through a difficult or lonely time. They do this with a fusion of yoga, meditation and self defence classes, which are especially targeted at women who may have suffered from cases of domestic violence. The centre's other specialist courses include Beautiful Women/ Beautiful Me, Pause, for thought and My Relationships and Me.

Mr McCall and former mayor and Women's Community Matter's chairwoman, Ann Thomson, closed the graduation ceremony by pledging their continued support for the inspirational organisation.


WCM clarify different types of abuse

PHYSICAL

-Nipping

-Pulling of hair

-Pushing

-Punching

-Kicking

-Strangling

-Restraining

-Throwing or smashing objects

-Imprisonment at home

-Attempted murder, murder

SEXUAL

-Forced to engage in sexual acts when you don't want to.

-Making you feel you have to have sex in order to keep the peace.

-Use of weapons/objects.

-Accusations of sex with other people.

-Criticising sexual performance.

FINANCIAL

-Gambling

-Taking control of money.

-No money for food or basic essentials.

-Questioning about spending.

-Making you account for every penny.

-Making you ask him for money.

-Claiming benefits in his name.

-Taking loans out in your name.

If you have been affected by any of these issues or feel the need to reach out for support from women in the centre, you can contact Katy, Rebecca or Rachel at the centre at 22A Duke Street, Barrow. Call 01229 311102 or visit the website at www.womenscommunitymatters.org.

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