#ForHolly campaign, launched in memory of Holly Bramley, spreading awareness of safe spaces for victims of domestic abuse

Safe spaces can be lifelines for those experiencing domestic abuse — and the #ForHolly campaign is aiming to ensure those in need know about them.

The campaign, in memory of Holly Bramley, was launched by her mum Annette, in partnership with the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service, and Lincolnshire Police.

It’s latest focus is on highlighting safe spaces, available in many pharmacies and some banks, which are there for people who are suffering abusive behaviour.

Holly was 26 years old when her life was taken by her abuser.

He was manipulative, controlling, jealous, suspicious, and invasive. He would check on Holly constantly and monitor her messages and search history. This would make it very difficult, and indeed dangerous, for Holly to call a support line, or search online for help. This is why safe spaces exist, and why they are important.

While it is unknown if Holly knew about safe spaces, or if she would have used one if she did, her family hope the information can help other suffering from abuse.

Annette said: “We, as a family, are asking and encouraging anyone living with domestic abuse to seek support and tell someone. There are services out there who can help victims find the happiness and freedom they deserve.”

The rooms offer a safe space away from the prying eyes of an abuser, where you can research and think about your options, and find help and support.

Although an abuser may be monitoring and controlling their victim’s movements, there are excuses to visit pharmacies and banks which can make the visit less likely to raise their suspicion.

You can find your nearest safe space via the uksaysnomore.org/safespaces/ webpage.

Organisations providing safe spaces include: Boots, Morrisons pharmacies, Superdrug pharmacies, independent pharmacies, HSBC, TSB, The Co-operative Bank and selected Metro Banks.

In Nottinghamshire, Newark and Sherwood District Council have recently approved a motion to help tackle violence against women and girls.

This will see council staff trained to support victims of abuse and violence, and council buildings become safe spaces.