Next year I’m attempting my biggest challenge yet, I will be cycling from London to Istanbul in (hopefully) under 30 days for Women’s aid UK.

Why am I fundraising?

Since playing Abe in Hollyoaks, I’ve had many women reach out to me on social media regarding our abusive and controlling storyline, which has been really saddening to read. Having grown up in a matriarchal household and later having close female friendships, I’ve witnessed a maddening amount of mistreatment toward women. Personal experience, combined with the recent messages I’ve received, has only amplified the importance of charities like Women’s Aid. We’re still so far from achieving gender equality, and the subject matter still isn’t taken seriously enough. So many women I know fear for their safety on an alarmingly regular basis. That’s why this charity is so important to me. I hope that the issue of women’s safety begins to be taken far more seriously in today’s society.

Did you know the police in England and Wales receive 100 calls every hour relating domestic abuse? (HMIC, 2015)

With three women being killed a fortnight by a current or ex-partner, so much needs to change before women are safe. This is why I am taking on this fundraiser to raise vital funds and awareness for survivors of domestic abuse, but I need your help.

The difference your support can make

£10 Could fund 1 life-changing conversation between a professional Women's Aid support worker and a survivor of domestic abuse.