A new chapter
As the new CEO of Future Living Hertford I feel incredibly honoured to lead the next chapter in the charity’s fight against domestic abuse and good mental wellbeing for all. Domestic abuse is a global issue. Its effects are felt most deeply by the individuals, families and communities it touches. Future Living offers support, safety and a community to adults, children and families who have experienced the trauma of domestic abuse. We help them move forward to a brighter future.
For too long domestic abuse has remained a hidden concern. Despite growing awareness, many women, and men, continue to suffer in silence, unsure of where to turn to for help. Statistics show that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives. A staggering and heartbreaking reality. But behind every statistic is a person, a story and a family that deserves safety and support.
How our services help
At Future Living Hertford, we recognise that domestic abuse doesn’t just impact the immediate victim. It can have long-lasting effects on children and families. The physical, emotional and psychological scars can take years to heal. Survivors need to be able to access comprehensive care and support to rebuild their lives. We have a range of services and a supportive community to provide long-term healing.
The charity was founded with a vision of a world where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. Where support is available to anyone that needs it to recover from abuse or trauma. Our mission is simple: to help anyone who has felt vulnerable through an abusive relationship to feel stronger, more empowered and able to make healthy life choices for themselves and their families. We offer a range of services including counselling and group therapies; support for children and young people via our children’s hub The Base; advocacy and guidance for victims and survivors of domestic abuse; training for professionals in providing sensitive and effective support to victims and survivors and healthy relationships programmes for schools to hopefully prevent them needing our help in the future.
Every story is unique
Every survivor has their own story and each deserves an individual approach to recovery. We are committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed care. Care that respects the dignity and choices of every individual that walks through our doors. But we also recognise that support for survivors is more than just offering services, it’s about creating a community. Domestic abuse can be isolating and many survivors feel they are navigating their pain alone. That’s why our programmes offer professional support, also fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
I am extremely lucky to have inherited a wonderfully professional and passionate team of staff, trustees and volunteers and an organisation that has been expertly grown and shaped by the leadership and passion of Sandra Conte, the founder and former CEO. But we cannot do this work alone. Domestic abuse is a societal issue. It will take the collective efforts of individuals, businesses and organisations to make a lasting impact. We invite you to join us in this mission – whether through donations, volunteering or simply raising awareness about the realities of domestic abuse.
At Future Living we believe that everyone deserves to live free from fear and we are committed to walking alongside survivors as they rebuild their lives. If you, or someone you know needs help, or if you would like to support our work, please do reach out. And I look forward to the challenges and successes of building a brighter, safer future for all – together.
