The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal a staggering scale of abuse affecting lives across the UK, with an estimated 5.1 million adults, one in ten experiencing domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking in the past year. Nearly one in four women has been affected. Despite the prevalence, police recorded just 815,941 domestic abuse-related offences between April 2024 and March 2025, indicating that four in five victims do not report the abuse.

Against this backdrop, SHEWISE, a London-based charity dedicated to empowering Global Majority women, particularly those from South Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds, is commemorating a decade of impact by launching a fundraising campaign to expand its life-changing services.

Over the past ten years, SHEWISE has helped more than 7,800 women across London escape abuse, rebuild independence, and access vital support. In the last year alone, demand for the charity’s services grew by 30%,reflecting the increasing urgency of its work. SHEWISE provides multilingual, culturally responsive guidance and serves as a trusted bridge to specialist services in counselling, legal advocacy, housing support, and skills-building programmes.

Sayeeda Ashraf, CEO of SHEWISE, stated: “Every statistic in the ONS report reflects a life lived in fear. For South Asian women, the barriers to leaving an abusive relationship, from cultural stigma to immigration status, are even more formidable. SHEWISE breaks the silence, builds trust, and offers a path to safety and dignity while challenging harmful social norms within our communities.”

Despite escalating referrals, many partner organisations, including local authorities, NHS trusts, universities, and schools, face shrinking resources and rising costs. SHEWISE remains steadfast in its mission, collaborating across sectors to deliver holistic, culturally sensitive support and challenge the social drivers of abuse.

The 10th Anniversary Fundraiser seeks to secure vital funding to ensure that no woman who seeks help is turned away. Donations will directly support trauma-informed counselling, legal assistance, and empowerment programmes tailored to women and children escaping violence.

Support SHEWISE and help women rebuild their lives by donating today –
SHEWISE (enthuse.com)