Salvos a force in saving mums
Walking away from an abusive relationship can be a harrowing journey and near-impossible to face alone.
Amber, who does not want her real name used, is rebuilding her life after more than two decades of domestic violence.
She spiralled into a pit of despair when the father of her four children continued to abuse her and the children.
"I didn't think I had any way out or anywhere to go," she said. "I used amphetamines and marijuana for years to escape and numb the pain.
"It made things worse. I developed psychosis and was admitted to a mental institution."
Amber mustered the courage to leave her partner for good this year.
"I saw how frightened my children were and thought I just couldn't do it to them anymore - they deserved a better life," she said.
"I think if I didn't get out when I did I would have taken my own life because he made me feel worthless."
Desperate for a place to go, Amber took her children to a Salvation Army Women's Refuge.
Since moving in about four months ago, her life has had a dramatic turnaround.
"They saved my life. If it wasn't for this place, I don't know where I'd be now," she said.
She battled addiction for many years and her partner used drugs as well.
The drugs exacerbated issues in their relationship.
"I hate drugs now," she said.
"They ruin society, they ruined my family.
"I want people to know there's help for people like this. It's incredible.
"I thought I'd never be able to change my life and get out of that stuff, but it's amazing what you can do if you want to change your life and your children's lives."
The Salvation Army's Capt. Naava Brooks works at the refuge that has helped Amber and many other women.
"Domestic violence is a hidden crime and it's fantastic the Government and the community are taking this seriously and helping us support women to change," she said.
Salvation Army's Red Shield Business Appeal, launched today, encourages socially minded businesses to invest in community programs such as the women's centre.
Go to salvationarmy.org.au/wa for more information.
'They saved my life. If it wasn't for this place, I don't know where I'd be now.'" Domestic violence victim Amber
