A VICTIM of brutal domestic violence and traumatic sexual assault is now raising awareness about domestic violence and abuse by volunteering for a Wiltshire charity tackling the issue.

Last November Sonia Saxby, of Manor Road, Trowbridge, almost died when she was strangled and faced threats her private parts would be cut with a pair of scissors from former boyfriend David Hateley – who is currently serving five years in prison for the attack.

Almost a year on, the 49-year-old mother’s life is immeasurably better after receiving support and counselling from the Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA).

Now a volunteer at Splitz Support Service, Trowbridge, Ms Saxby spoke about her experiences as the charity celebrated receiving a £203,000 grant from Wiltshire Council and the Police and Crime Commissioner.

“I always said I would do something. I feel I have been given a purpose to try and make a difference. I can do it. This is something I am so passionate about and there is a long way to go,” she said.

“What Splitz are doing is crucial and it has been brilliantly put together,” said Ms Saxby, commenting on Splitz becoming a single point of contact to combat domestic violence and abuse.

“With what they have got, they are doing great work. People need these facilities. Having places like these helped me cope, have someone to talk to and get through life.

“Life now is really quite good. You have good and bad days but my good days are so much better than before. I am a lot happier.”

The funding of £203,000 over the next 18 months equals just over £11,000 a month, an amount Ms Saxby says is insufficient. She took aim at the government for cutting funds to tackle this issue, which she calls a taboo subject for them.

“They don’t want to discuss it really. It isn’t an issue they want to talk about as not nearly enough is being done. I waited six months for counselling,” she said.

“What will happen when the 18 months is up? It won’t go far enough. They are underfunded and it isn’t acceptable.”

The launch event also included a speech from Bugsy Brasastocki, 28, who has been with the service since March after suffering from domestic violence and Sharon Whitworth, 46, who created a display to show how she got through her own abuse.

Chief executive of Splitz Fran Lewis said: “We are very grateful for the donation. It’s a wonderful feeling to help these people." We need to change the way people think about domestic abuse “Most people can go home and relax without the fear of being put at risk every day but some aren’t that lucky. This can affect kids for the rest of their lives if they see domestic violence early on.

“We can be that safe haven for people and getting our message out there to help.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “I was delighted to help fund this important service.”

“It will be a great benefit to everyone who is experiencing domestic abuse that a single number will put them through to a skilled advisor who can discuss their needs and support them in a way that is right for them.”

Splitz will provide an easy to access, high quality product offering crisis interventions, access to alternative accommodation and safety planning. For more information call 01225 775276 or contact helpdesk@splitz.org.