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Safe Spaces: A Place to Be Heard
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse by someone in the Church, or through their connection with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales, or the Church in Wales.
Run by First Light, Safe Spaces offers confidential, trauma-informed support to people aged 18 and over, regardless of when the abuse occurred or whether the perpetrator is living or deceased. Our trained support advocates provide emotional support, practical guidance and advocacy, helping survivors feel safe, heard and believed.
“I wanted to say thank you so much for your continued support over the past few months. Your support has been really instrumental, both practically and emotionally, and something that I never got from the Church of England. It is such a blessing that services like Safe Spaces exist.”
We understand the unique challenges faced by those affected by abuse in religious contexts. Whether someone is still connected to the Church or has left it behind, Safe Spaces provides a safe, personal and non-judgemental space to be heard, supported and empowered.
"Talking to you really does help. I also want to thank you for your humility in saying if you don’t know something you will find out and not taking advantage of any power dynamic. What I need is someone to stand beside me and that’s exactly what you’re doing".
By fundraising for Safe Spaces, you help us continue to offer this vital lifeline. Your support enables us to provide a safe and personal space for survivors to begin their healing journey, free from judgement and with complete confidentiality.
“I think the peer support group is going to be the best thing I’ve ever been involved in”, and “it’s like the weight I’ve been carrying around with me all these years is lifted when I’m talking to them all”.
Together, we can ensure that no one faces abuse alone.
Every donation helps us reach more people and offer the compassionate support they deserve.