In March, our CEO, Beverley Jones and IDVA Service Manager, Ruth Cherry-Galal represented Next Chapter at the House of Lords Select Committee on Domestic Abuse, delivering powerful evidence on how recent changes are affecting our clients. They highlighted both the positive work of Essex Police and the vital improvements needed across the wider system. Ruth gave an exceptional contribution, impressing the Committee Chair, Baroness Kennedy, who publicly praised her expertise and impact. A huge achievement!

This was a major moment of national recognition for Next Chapter, showcasing the knowledge and dedication within our team. You can watch Bev and Ruth’s appearance alongside Harriet Wistrich above (skip to 11:43:20). This is an incredible spotlight on our organisation and the important work we do every day.

Domestic abuse affects people of all genders and sexualities. But for many LGBTQ+ individuals, those experiences are still too often misunderstood or silenced. At Next Chapter, we see this first hand. Abuse doesn’t always look the same and for LGBTQ+ survivors, it can come with additional layers of complexity. That’s why our doors are open to anyone who needs support.

Listening to survivors is at the heart of what we do. It takes immense courage to speak out. People share their stories not just for themselves, but for others who may not yet realise help is available. Representation matters, when people see themselves reflected, they’re more likely to reach out.

Stanley’s Story

In 2026, Stanley*(name changed to protect his identity) was referred to Next Chapter by his caseworker. As a trans man, he had reached a point where he needed to escape the abuse he was experiencing.

Stanley endured psychological abuse that targeted his identity. His gender was used against him, harmful comments were made, such as telling him he would “never be a man” and that he would “always have a girl’s body”. Words like these can have a profound impact. They undermine confidence and distort self-worth. Reflecting on his experience, Stanley shared:

“A lot of people take advantage of people who identify as trans, especially when they’re still figuring things out…They try to push boundaries or explore parts of you that you’re not comfortable with.”

His words highlight a painful reality, vulnerability is often exploited. Abuse in LGBTQ+ relationships can involve control, coercion and manipulation linked to identity, making it even harder to recognise.

Eventually, Stanley made the incredibly difficult decision to leave. He stepped away from everything familiar and moved into our dispersed housing, beginning his journey towards safety and recovery.

When he arrived, Stanley wasn’t just carrying the trauma of abuse. Like many survivors, he had turned to substances to cope. He described those first moments with us as: “A mixture of emotions…I felt like I was finally free, finally safe. But there was also fear, because I was taking myself away from the comfort of my life.”

That combination of relief and fear is something many survivors experience. Leaving abuse isn’t just about escaping harm, it’s about rebuilding a life from the ground up.

Starting some where new is daunting. But with support from his practitioner, Stanley told us his experience has been “amazing” and “My needs are met and I feel like my character is understood. They take the time to understand my mental health as well. It’s been hard and there are a lot of ups and downs, but I speak out when I’m having bad times.”

Our practitioners work alongside each person to build safety plans, offer guidance and provide support on both good days and difficult ones. We want every survivor to feel heard and empowered to be themselves.

Stanley shared that this support has helped him reconnect with who he is “It’s helped me realise who I am.”

A key part of Stanley’s recovery has been having his own safe, private space. Through our dispersed housing, he has a self-contained flat where he can feel secure and begin to rebuild.

We’ve also supported him with practical steps, including helping with legal documentation to change his name, advocating for his rights and putting plans in place to support him through challenging moments.

Reflecting on his journey, Stanley told us he is most proud of his sobriety: “Sitting with my emotions…the fact that I am sober, I’m not abusing alcohol anymore to take the pain away.”

He also shared the importance of patience in recovery: “There are times where I feel like I could be a lot further than I am, but I remind myself that everything isn’t built in a day.” Recovery takes time. It isn’t a sprint. Every step forward is brave and Stanley is building a freer future for himself. Stanley is still on his journey with us. As new challenges arise, we will continue to walk alongside him and provide the support he needs.

When asked what he would say to others in his community experiencing abuse, he said:

“Reach out for help, do it. Don’t let the comfort of your situation keep dragging you backwards…continue to be brave and your life will change.”

At Next Chapter, we recognise that every survivor’s experience is unique. For LGBTQ+ individuals, support must be inclusive and free from judgement.

We can provide:

· Specialist practitioners who listen.

· Safe, confidential accommodation.

· Emotional and practical support to rebuild confidence and independence.

· A space where people can be fully themselves, without fear.

Most importantly, we believe survivors. We validate their experiences and stand alongside them as they rebuild their lives.

Stanley’s story is just one of many. It’s a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone and that identity should never be used as a weapon.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please remember you are not alone. Support is available and we’re here when you’re ready.

At Next Chapter, our volunteers help us bridge the gap for clients nearing the end of their time with us, or after they’ve moved on from our service. With regular check-ins, they offer stability during what can be an uncertain time, making sure no one feels alone.

When people hear the word ‘volunteer’, they often picture someone helping out every now and then, maybe making a cup of tea or lending a hand at an event. But our volunteers are so much more than that. They give an hour a week to be compassionate listeners and continue to walk alongside our clients while they further explore their empowerment journey and what their next chapter looks like. As one volunteer shared:

‍Being a volunteer means giving an hour of my time listening, reflecting back and just being present.”

They show up in all weathers, often balancing their own busy lives, yet still choosing to give their time and energy to support survivors of domestic abuse. For many, the impact of that time is life changing. One client described their volunteer as, “a bit of a life saver for me. Not only someone to talk to. She understood me. She gave freely of her time and was both compassionate and empathetic.” They went onto say, “I can never forget her kindness…I now believe that I have a future.”

Our volunteers support survivors in many different ways across the organisation. The majority offer one-to-one empowerment support to those who have completed a programme within one of our Next Chapter teams. Others assist with fundraising and events, support recovery programmes such as RISE, or provide practical help within our refuges.

Their impact comes through listening and simply being present. As one client put it, “Sometimes you just need to vent to someone who's not a friend or family member, but someone who has spoken to people who have been through the same situation.” And crucially, “Having someone to talk to who listens without judging…makes you realise you’re not going crazy.” This non-judgemental, consistent support is often what helps clients move from surviving to thriving.

The transition from structured support to independence can be one of the most challenging stages of recovery. Volunteers play an essential role in making that transition feel safe and manageable. As one volunteer explains, “Volunteers provide an invaluable light touch, pastoral support for clients who are moving from surviving to thriving…allowing this transition to move slowly and gently at the pace of the client.” Another volunteer reflected on the impact of this work:

Through empowerment calls, I have had the privilege of supporting a client in rebuilding confidence…feeling heard without judgement…and taking small but important steps towards hope and independence.”

For clients, this support can be transformative. One shared, “Just talking…he doesn’t judge me, he listens…he has been my rock.”

Another added, “made me realise that I am not the source of the problem…helped me feel confident and stand up for myself.”

These relationships help rebuild confidence, restore self-worth and remind people that they are not alone. Volunteering is not only about supporting others, but it is also deeply meaningful for those who give their time. One volunteer shared:

‍Volunteering with Next Chapter has been an incredibly meaningful experience…I feel proud to contribute to work that genuinely changes lives.”

Another highlighted the connection built through face-to-face support, “Attending the coffee mornings has been especially rewarding…being with such inspiring individuals who are navigating challenging times.”

Our volunteers often speak about the power of simply being present, listening and believing in someone’s potential and our clients feel that deeply. As one client said simply, “They cared. Which is really valuable when it feels like society doesn’t.”

Over the last six months, volunteering at Next Chapter has grown in incredible ways. Following conversations across our teams about where volunteers could make the biggest impact, we introduced eight brand-new volunteer roles across the organisation.

Thanks to two successful recruitment campaigns, our volunteer team grew from 10 volunteers to 29. That growth has helped us reach more people and strengthen our services. They remind us of the power of community and what can be achieved when people come together to support one another. Their dedication allows our staff to respond to the increasing demand for support, ensuring more people can access the help they need.

Volunteering is not just about giving time. It is about giving compassion, understanding and hope.

To every one of our volunteers, thank you. Thank you for your time, your energy, your patience and your kindness. Thank you for every conversation, every moment of reassurance and every step you walk alongside someone in their recovery.

For many survivors, stalking doesn’t start with one dramatic incident. It often begins with boundaries being ignored. While stalking can happen to anyone, it is more common after the end of an intimate relationship and is often driven by a need to regain control. The impact can be deeply traumatic and life‑changing.

Stalking is a pattern of behaviour that wears away at someone’s sense of safety and emotional wellbeing over time. Separation is a known point of escalation. When control is challenged, behaviours can intensify. In UK policing, stalking is recognised as a predictor of domestic homicide. An escalation of behaviour can have devastating consequences, with data showing that most domestic homicides occur within 6 months of separation. 41% of women killed by a current or former partner had separated or were trying to. 30% were killed in the first month and 70% within the first year.

Behind every statistic is a real person. Last year, we supported 234 victims of stalking, each with their own story and a few survivors have allowed us to share parts of their experiences to highlight just how damaging stalking can be.

One survivor was stalked after separating from her husband. Despite clear requests for him to stop, he continued with constant messages and calls, doing everything he could to make his presence felt and take back control. Closure became impossible. Over time, his behaviour escalated, from unwanted contact to turning up in person, monitoring movements and making threats of self-harm. This can be an abusive person’s tactic, in aim to attempt ideas of self-guilt, responsibility and place blame at the hands of the victim, the abusive person is manipulating to gain control back.

One survivor said:

“I would clearly draw a line in the sand, but that line was repeatedly crossed. A non-abusive person respects boundaries and stops contac when asked” and “I’ve had to change my routines and I’m always aware of what’s around me.”

Having to be constantly alert is a common feeling when being stalked. Survivors often change routines, stay hyper‑aware of their surroundings and begin to doubt their own reactions. The mental exhaustion can be overwhelming and just as harmful as physical abuse.

Home, a place that should feel safe, can become frightening. As one survivor told us:

“It’s felt like living in a haunted house. Even when nothing is happening, there’s a constant fear that something could happen at any time. It can make you question yourself and feel like you’re losing your mind.”

In one case, safety planning with their assigned IDVA (Independent Domestic Abuse Adviser), who also assisted with a house application, helped a survivor relocate. Too often, it’s the survivor who has to leave their home, support networks and community, while the perpetrator’s life goes on as normal.

For survivors with children, the impact can be even greater. Protecting children while managing fear, trauma and sometimes, complex family court processes is incredibly challenging. Stalking rarely affects just one person, it impacts the whole family.

Many survivors also face difficulties when seeking protection. Delays and unclear decision-making can leave people feeling unheard. Legal measures like court orders are important, but they don’t physically stop someone from making contact. Risk doesn’t disappear just because communication pauses.

Specialist support can make a huge difference. IDVAs help survivors understand risk, document patterns, plan for safety and feel believed. One survivor told us:

“They helped me understand the risk, put safety measures in place and made sure my situation was taken seriously.”

Stalking is a serious crime that can escalate and cause lasting harm. If something feels wrong or frightening, it’s enough to seek help.

We asked one of our survivors what they felt needed to change most:

“There needs to be better recognition of patterns and fixation, even when contact has stopped. Court orders help, but they don’t physically stop someone. The risk can still be there.”

This is why awareness matters. National Stalking Awareness Week helps shine a light on these realities, but this conversation needs to continue all year round. We must challenge myths, recognise patterns early and take survivors seriously.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, help is available. Stalking is a crime and early support can save lives.

Contact us on 01206 500585 or COMPASS on 0330 333 7 444.

Join Team Next Chapter at London’s Big Half 2026

Sun 6th Sep 2026

Have you ever wanted to take part in one of London’s most exciting running events while making a real difference to people’s lives?

We’re thrilled to be taking part in The Big Half 2026, and we’re inviting supporters to join Team Next Chapter on the start line.

The Big Half is a vibrant half marathon that takes runners through the heart of London, celebrating community, diversity and the joy of running. Whether you’re an experienced runner or taking on your first 13.1 miles, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Run for The Next Chapter

By running for The Next Chapter, you’ll be helping us support people who have experienced domestic abuse and need help to rebuild their lives safely and independently.

Every mile you run and every pound you raise helps us continue our vital work in the community.

You won’t be doing it alone either, our team will support you with encouragement, fundraising tips and plenty of cheer along the way.

Inspired by our runners

When we first took part in The Big Half, two of our amazing staff, Bev and Coral, proudly ran for The Next Chapter.

Their determination and dedication helped raise vital funds and awareness for our charity. We’d love to see more supporters follow in their footsteps this year.

Secure one of our final places

Places for The Big Half are extremely limited and we now have just a few charity places remaining.

To join Team Next Chapter, runners are asked to:

• Pay a £50 non-refundable registration fee
• Commit to raising a minimum of £500 in sponsorship

Every penny raised will help us continue supporting those affected by domestic abuse.

Be part of something special

Running The Big Half is more than just completing a race. It’s about joining a community, challenging yourself, and making a real difference.

If you’ve been looking for a reason to take on a new challenge in 2026, this could be it.

Applications now closed.

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Tech abuse occurs within intimate relationships, where perpetrators exploit digital tools to extend their control beyond physical interactions, creating an invisible, omnipresent threat.

Common methods of tech abuse in domestic settings include the installation of spyware, or ‘stalkerware’ on victims' devices to monitor their activities secretly. Abusers often use GPS tracking to follow their partners' movements and employ social media platforms to harass, impersonate, or publicly shame their victims. This digital manipulation enables abusers to maintain control even when they are not physically present, deepening the victim's sense of isolation and helplessness.

A particularly invasive tactic is the unauthorised access to victims' personal accounts. Abusers may read private emails and messages, monitor social media interactions, and access sensitive information such as photos, financial details, or location data. This breach of privacy not only strips victims of their sense of security but also provides abusers with information they can use to further manipulate and control their partners.

The impact of tech abuse in domestic contexts is profound. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, fear, and a pervasive sense of being watched. The abuse can lead to significant emotional and psychological trauma, compounding the harm inflicted by physical or verbal abuse. Additionally, the digital nature of tech abuse means that victims may find it difficult to seek help, as abusers can monitor their attempts to reach out to support services or law enforcement.

N, a Next Chapter Domestic Abuse Practitioner, said:

“I had a client where the perpetrator was using the victims’ online bank account to send them messages in the reference line for deposits – the perpetrator would deposit 1p and send the victim a message, which would come up when they went into their back account online... it left them feeling like there was no escape – the perpetrator was able to intrude on the victim everywhere...”

Often, the perpetrator will exploit any accounts they know the victim has to harass them. This could be from personal profile accounts like Facebook, all the way to online shopping platforms like eBay.

If you’ve been affected by any of the themes raised in this article, or are concerned about the direction your relationship is heading – click the ‘get help’ button above or call our friendly team on 0330 333 7 444

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