Nearly 12 years after the murder of 20 year old Hollie Gazzard by her abusive ex-partner, her family is incredibly proud that what happened to their daughter is helping protect young people in the future.
Hollie’s experience has been used by the government to inform their VAWG strategy – published today. See the strategy HERE.
At Hollie Gazzard Trust we know the importance of making children and young people aware of the warning signs of abusive and controlling behaviour and how to make positive choices in all their relationships. In Hollie’s name we go into schools, colleges and Universities and talk to young people about her story and what could have made a difference. We want to continue to do this important work, supported by the new VAWG strategy and we want to expand what we do to help younger children, primary schools and perhaps most importantly parents to support their loved ones to keep safe and navigate the enormous pressures of modern life – online and in the real world.
We also know the importance of getting the right help to those impacted by domestic abuse at the right time. Like Hollie, many women who reach the stage when they are ready to end abusive relationships WANT support and help to stay safe – but they are being let down by a system that too often does not recognise ex-partner stalking and the elevated risk from abusers when they lose control. Using the VAWG strategy, we want to continue to work with police forces and support services across the country to provide our safety app Hollie Guard EXTRA to those at highest risk of domestic homicide. We want to make sure that ex-partner stalking is better identified and safeguarding and support is provided for those like Hollie – when they are ready and need it most.
Violence Against Women and girls is a national epidemic. At Hollie Gazzard Trust we are more determined than ever to make sure the lives of women like Hollie were not lost in vain and that we really learn lessons and those with the power to make change, listen and take action that will save lives.
For media comment contact Jane@holliegazzard.org
Tel: 07950 633796