I am a survivor of abuse. The abuse in all its forms began when I was a small child and continued for most of my life. I had no one to protect me – not my family, my teachers, my community, the police or the legal system. No one cared enough to hear my silent screams for help. These experiences, combined with a career in safeguarding children, led me in 1996 to begin a lifelong dream of creating Oasis, a place where no one would ever have to feel isolated and alone again. I wanted to create a second family for those who had none. A sanctuary for those seeking safety. A place where people would feel listened to, could seek advice, and given the means to rebuild their self-confidence, resilience and independence. Over the past 25 years, I have been joined along this journey by an incredible team of staff and volunteers. Together, we have established a wide range of preventative services to support families from falling into crisis as well as safeguarding services that support children and adults identified as victims of abuse.
By working closely with local statutory and voluntary agencies, a network of support can be put in place enabling the family to access the right services at the right time, for as long as they need the support. Our work is not time-limited; Oasis will walk beside them in their journey to rebuild their life. My team and I feel privileged and blessed to have touched the lives of those who have sought our help and come out the other side. I believe the future of Oasis belongs to all of us. These children and families live here in our community; they’re living next door, they are our friends, our neighbours, our child’s best friends or classmates.
