I entered an arranged marriage in Morocco in 2012 and came to the UK in 2013. We had three children together and, although we tried to build a life, the relationship was difficult from the beginning. In 2021, we moved back to Morocco, hoping for a better future, but when my husband was unable to find work, we returned to the UK in 2022.
From the early days of our marriage, the relationship was volatile. He was often verbally abusive and, on separate occasions, physically violent. The worst incident happened while we were living in Morocco, he punched me in the eye, leaving it badly bruised. Even small things could trigger his anger, and I constantly had to keep the peace for the sake of the children.
The abuse continued over the years. He beat me multiple times, and the verbal insults became a constant part of my life. He repeatedly belittled me, making me feel worthless. I began to believe what he said and slowly lost my confidence. I never reported any of the incidents out of fear. He would threaten me, saying that if I went to the police, he would leave me and marry someone else. The pressure, especially coming from family expectations, kept me silent.
But in early 2023, something changed. During a particularly bad argument, he spat in my face and slapped me repeatedly. For the first time, I called the police. He was arrested on suspicion of common assault. Although I later dropped the case due to pressure from extended family, this incident finally brought everything into the open.
The police had made a referral to children’s social services, who then got involved. They advised me to seek support from an organisation that could help women in my situation, especially one that spoke my language. That’s how I found KMEWO.
When I was referred to KMEWO, their advice worker assessed my situation and recognised the high level of risk I was living under. My case was referred to MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) for additional safeguarding. It was the first time I felt truly heard and understood. My biggest challenge had always been my limited English, and I had no family or support network in the UK. KMEWO changed that.
With their help, I was able to explore my legal rights. I was referred to a solicitor and, with a support letter from KMEWO, I applied for and was granted a Non-Molestation Order for a year, as well as a Child Arrangement Order. I also began attending counselling sessions in my native language, which helped me process years of trauma.
KMEWO supported me with practical needs as well. I was moved to emergency accommodation for my safety and helped with the application process for financial support. They also attended Child in Need meetings with me, the school, and social services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of my children, including making plans for the school holidays.
Thanks to the support I received, I’m no longer isolated. I now know where to turn for help, and my confidence has grown. I’m still on my journey, but I’ve taken important steps toward rebuilding a life free from fear and control.