Ahead of UK National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week a trio of women who established a support group for survivors of sexual abuse are reflecting on a productive first year.
Surviving United was set up by sexual abuse survivors Angela Marnoch and Lisa Ambrose with the help of volunteer facilitator Lucy Attelsey.
The group's first meeting was in January 2016 but since then the group - which offers confidential support service for survivors of sexual, domestic or psychological abuse - has grown and now runs regular support meetings in Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.
Angela Marnoch said: 'The last 12 months have been amazing in the fact that we are reaching and helping to support survivors on their journey of recovery.'
With UK National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week being held between February 6 and 12, Surviving United will host an awareness event at The Kirkley Centre on February 6 featuring a variety of workshops and speakers as well as being opened by Waveney MP Peter Aldous.
'Holding this event is extremely important to us and survivors. Sexual abuse and sexual violence is not talked about enough.
'Even now, in 2017, people still want to ignore it and pretend that it doesn't happen or doesn't matter and you should just forget about it and carry on with you life – its not that simple.
'Our meetings are a confidential and relaxed support group- there is no pressure to talk, you can just sit and listen until you are ready.
'Tea, coffee and biscuits are supplied along with friendly faces, a first hand understanding of what you are going through and help towards a brighter happier future,' explained Mrs Marnoch.
Group meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month between 6pm and 8pm at The Kirkley Centre, Lowestoft.
In Great Yarmouth meetings are held at Victim Support on the last Friday of each month.
These groups are for women but a support group for men will be launched on March 8 between 6pm and 8pm at Victim Support in Great Yarmouth.
For more details: www.survivingunited.weebly.com .
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