Laura ESDAS

What are we doing? Between the 19th August and 8th September 2012 Laura and Michelle will be travelling 2000km from Surrey to Africa. Why - One average two women a week are killed by their current or ex-partners in England and Wales. Many of these murders go unreported and thus the loss of life is barely recognised, other than by those left behind - a woman's children, friends, work colleagues and family. Our journey is intended to mark the passing of these women in the UK and also to recognise the number of people ESDAS has supported to survive since we were founded 18 years ago. We will in essence be travelling from one domestic abuse service in the UK to one in Africa highlighting the pervasive and unbiased nature of domestic abuse. It is also important to recognise the strong and consistent support that we have recieved from our funders and partner agencies over a number of years and we hope to proactively show that we believe in the work of ESDAS also. Our Inspiration - Unfortuna... more

What are we doing? Between the 19th August and 8th September 2012 Laura and Michelle will be travelling 2000km from Surrey to Africa. Why - One average two women a week are killed by their current or ex-partners in England and Wales. Many of these murders go unreported and thus the loss of life is barely recognised, other than by those left behind - a woman's children, friends, work colleagues and family. Our journey is intended to mark the passing of these women in the UK and also to recognise the number of people ESDAS has supported to survive since we were founded 18 years ago. We will in essence be travelling from one domestic abuse service in the UK to one in Africa highlighting the pervasive and unbiased nature of domestic abuse. It is also important to recognise the strong and consistent support that we have recieved from our funders and partner agencies over a number of years and we hope to proactively show that we believe in the work of ESDAS also. Our Inspiration - Unfortunately the UK recession has lead to significant cuts in our funding over the past few years which have threatened to undermine the services we offer to survivors of domestic abuse. The quotes below made by our service users inspired us to take on this journey and do what we can to ensure survivors of domestic abuse and their children continue to get the help they need. "The service has given me courage, confidence and support. I had lost myself and now I stand tall knowing I am not alone. With your support I have aims and targets in my life, there is no quick fix - your patience and understanding allows me to grow and to know it is not my fault" "Words cannot express how grateful I am for the professionalism, empathy and support I have experienced through this service. I have seen my key worker to be my advocate, mentor, counsellor and friend so many times always trying to get into the role that suited my situation at the time." "The service has been a lifeline speaking to people who understand has really helped. You have given me guidance, clarity and support. It helps to have someone validate what you are thinking and feeling as the situation can make you feel like you are going mad. It has been a huge support and shown me that although I cannot change other people's actions I can decide what I want to do and focus on, the support as been brilliant for me." The Journey - We will begin our 2000km journey at ESDAS offices in Redhill and walk to Gatwick Airport where we will then fly to Gaborone, Botswana (the flight distance will not be included in the total km travelled). Once in Botswana we will journey round the country visiting various women's projects and villages. We will trek where possible and safe, live on basic rations and stay in basic accommodation. Where possible we will upload pictures and a blog so that people can track our journey. We hope that you will be able to support ESDAS by sponsoring us to undertake this challenge, we are funding the cost of the trip ourselves and therefore all donations will go directly towards supporting survivors of domestic abuse and their children. We also hope to make a donation to an appropriate project in Botswana.

For more information please see our website: http://lauraandmichellesbotswanajourney.yolasite.com/

Many Thanks Love Laura and Michelle