Support and safety in Sandwell
Through dedicated services in discreet locations, WiSE helps women in Sandwell to access support in safe environments.
“I feel like I’m going to the pub without the drink”
Grief, abuse and stigma left Sarah struggling to find support. At WiSE, she found a community – and a space to heal.
This article contains references to violence and abuse which you may find upsetting. To protect Sarah’s anonymity, we’ve changed her name and removed some details which could identify her, but the experiences she describes are completely real.
Women can face many barriers to support with substance use. These include motherhood and caregiving, judgement and sexism, and services that expect them to stop using drugs or alcohol completely before they can access help.
These barriers left Sarah unable to access support safely through mainstream services. She had experienced immense grief and trauma when a member of her close family was tragically murdered. Drinking had been something they enjoyed together, but now, alcohol had become a way for Sarah to cope as she held onto her connection with the relative whose life was so cruelly taken away.
“I gave up alcohol for three months and during that time I was able to do talking therapies, but I didn't move forward because I felt too vulnerable.”
‘Sarah’
WiSE Project attendee
To make matters worse, Sarah was also in an abusive relationship. Talking about her trauma during therapy could be overwhelming, and she often turned to alcohol as a crutch. Sarah had been advised to stay sober while taking part in talking therapies, and so she found herself in a difficult position.
Thankfully, a friend introduced her to the WiSE Project, explaining that it was a safe space where women can access support even if they're not receiving treatment elsewhere.
Sarah reflected that her traumatic experiences had led directly to her increased drinking, and so it was important that WiSE recognised women may use drugs or alcohol to cope with their circumstances. Having a shared space where this could be discussed without judgement helped Sarah work through the guilt and shame she had felt before.
“I was going through a lot of domestic abuse at the time. There was no way I could have been sober during that.”
‘Sarah’
WiSE Project attendee
Sarah reflected that WiSE is “open to everyone”, and a safe place for women, no matter how much they feel able to engage with the support available. “Some people don’t say a dicky bird to anybody and just sit there with their earphones on,” she explains. “At least she is coming, and she feels comfortable.”
The WiSE Project now offers Sarah an invaluable opportunity to process her trauma while connecting and socialising with other women, adding a new source of community to her life.
If you need support, we’re here for you
Many women use alcohol or other drugs to survive gender-based violence, domestic abuse and psychological harm. WiSE provides a safe space where women can talk about their experiences and access support without judgement, shame or stigma. Contact us to find your nearest service.
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