For our 16 Days of Activism series, Fiona, who is a Healthwatch Essex Trauma Ambassador and the founder and CEO of The Dandelion Project, has written a blog post on building resilience.
Content warning – please be aware that this account mentions abusive relationships, which some people may find triggering. Do not read unless you feel comfortable to do so.
As we observe the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, this is a time to acknowledge the courage of those who have survived abuse and to recognise the support available to help you rebuild. No matter where you are in your journey, healing is possible — and you don’t have to do it alone.
Leaving an abusive relationship can be a brave but difficult first step. You may feel overwhelmed, alone, or unsure of where to turn next. Even after leaving, feelings of shame, doubt, and emotional pain can linger. You’re not alone in these feelings. Many survivors face them, and they’re completely valid. But healing, growth, and even joy can follow, especially when you have a community that understands and supports you every step of the way.
The Strength of Community in Healing from Abuse
Finding a supportive community is one of the most powerful ways to rebuild after abuse. Knowing that you’re not alone — that others understand your experiences and are there to listen without judgement — can be life-changing. I founded The Dandelion Project with this in mind, to give survivors like you a place to find strength, support, and healing. The Dandelion Project offers in-person classes in Colchester where survivors come together to rebuild resilience through dance and movement. You don’t need any experience with dance — these classes are designed simply to help you reconnect with your body, reclaim your confidence, and feel safe in a welcoming environment. We also have an online community, where you can connect from anywhere, share experiences, and find people who understand what you’re going through. Our goal is to offer a place where you can take things at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for gentle support, a space to process your experiences, or simply a community that respects and understands you, The Dandelion Project is here for you.
Healing Isn’t Always Linear — and That’s Okay
Recovering from trauma is a process, and it’s different for everyone. Some days may feel harder than others, and that’s completely natural. Often, the most challenging part of healing is allowing yourself to feel the emotions you’ve pushed down. One of the tools I’ve found incredibly helpful, and others in our programme have too, is to create your own “Strength in a Jar”. Skip to the bottom of this article to find out more and try it for yourself!
You Are Not Alone in This Journey
I know first-hand how isolating it can feel to recover from abuse. I created The Dandelion Project so you could have a place to connect, share, and find encouragement from others who’ve faced similar experiences. During these 16 Days of Activism, let us remember that healing is not just possible — it is happening every day. The Dandelion Project is here to support you, whether through in-person classes in Colchester or in our online community. No matter where you are, you’re invited to join, to take each day as it comes, and to know that you are not alone. Your resilience is powerful, and you deserve a safe, supportive space where you can thrive. For more information about joining The Dandelion Project, in person or online, please visit www.thedandelionproject.co.uk.
Strength in a Jar
1. Find a jar (or box) and keep somewhere you’ll see daily
2. Write down moments of resilience each day/ week, even if they seem small at the time. It could be anything from getting through a difficult moment, reaching out to someone for support, setting a boundary or showing yourself kindness.
3. Add words of support from friends, family, or positive notes or affirmations to yourself. Every time you add to the jar, you’re building a tangible reminder of your progress and strength. Over time, this jar will be a resource you can turn to on challenging days, helping you remember the courage you carry and the community that supports you, even from afar.
Fiona
Trauma Ambassador
If you would like to access support around any of the issues mentioned in this blog, or to share your own lived experience, give the Healthwatch Essex Information & Guidance Service a call on 0300 500 1895, email [email protected] or text/WhatsApp on 07712 395398.
If you would like to find out more about the Trauma Ambassador Group and our work, you can find out more here.