Ebony’s story

After continued domestic violence from her ex-partner, Ebony finally sought help. Doing our Safety Programme was the turning point she needed to free herself from fear and start living the life she wanted.

When the violence at home escalated, Ebony found herself at Manukau Police Station. Police recommended she undertake the Iosis Safety Programme – something she now describes as one of the best decisions she has ever made.

“When I first started working with Iosis, I was psychologically and physically broken,” she reflects. “Things felt so hopeless and I didn’t know where to turn”.

At the time, Ebony was studying toward a Level 4 Welding qualification at the New Zealand Welding School. She loved the course and was proud of what she was achieving, but fear began to get in the way.

“My ex-partner knew when I had classes” she explains.” I was constantly worried he might turn up. I was always looking over my shoulder. Some days it felt easier just to stay home and lock the doors.”

Working with Marietta at Iosis changed all of that. “Marietta was fantastic from day one and ‘thank you’ will never be enough,” says Ebony. “She is amazing at her job. and it’s because of her that I now feel hope and can see a new future ahead.”

Small steps towards a better life

Each week, Marietta helped Ebony focus on small, practical steps to increase her safety and confidence. One week it was applying for a Protection Order. The next, organising a safety watch that connected her to immediate help if needed.

“She showed me lots of practical things I could do which made me feel and be safer. My thinking changed from wondering ‘when this would ever end’ to feeling positive about the future.”

Slowly, over several weeks, Ebony started to feel safer and less fearful. “Marietta was so encouraging and didn’t want to me to give up the course that I loved so much. That’s when she suggested the safety watch. I’m so proud that I finished the course and didn’t let my ex-partner get in my way.”

Ebony is now feeling much more positive about life. “I still have my moments, but I’m looking for a job now that I’m qualified. Things are looking so much brighter.”

One thing Marietta said early on has stayed with her. “She said that ‘there are people out there who love and care for you and who want the best for you’. She always made me feel like I had her support and the support of others – that I wasn’t alone.”