Bringing Hope Through HEAL DA: Launching Two Powerful Testimony Videos

Last month, we were thrilled to share news about the Met Police’s HEAL DA project – a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting those within the force who have been subjected to abuse by a partner. Today, we’re even more excited to bring you a beautiful and moving update.

We’re proud to launch two short videos featuring women who have attended one of HEAL DA’s Own My Life courses. These powerful testimonies highlight just how transformative the programme has been – not only offering vital support, but doing so in a way that truly understands the unique barriers police colleagues face when trying to access help.

For many women working in policing – whether as officers, staff or volunteers – seeking support for domestic abuse can be an isolating and complex challenge. Confidentiality concerns, stigma, and the realities of working within law enforcement often mean that traditional support routes don’t feel accessible or safe. While one-to-one support might be possible, accessing an external support group would feel impossible for most police colleagues, given that the other women in the group may be quite hostile or resistant to the police (this is also the case for social workers, health workers and others, particularly given women in these professions may have had women in the group as clients or patients).

That’s why Own My Life, delivered through HEAL DA, is such a game changer.

Each woman in these videos shares how essential it was for them to be part of a group work programme tailored specifically for police colleagues. The space to be seen, heard, and supported – without fear of judgement – was life changing.

They remind us that recovery and empowerment are deeply personal journeys, and that the right environment can make all the difference.

We believe Own My Life should be available in workplaces where women may face additional barriers to accessing mainstream domestic abuse services – and the workplace itself can become a safe place of transformation.

If you’re part of a police force and want to know more, our Relationship Development Lead, Victoria Mason, would love to speak with you about introducing Own My Life to your support offerings for officers, staff, and volunteers (victoria.mason@ownmylifecourse.org).

And if you work in HR or are passionate about workplace wellbeing, our Business Development Consultant, Emma Chandler, would be delighted to discuss how Own My Life can have a meaningful impact in your organisation (emma@choosetogrow.co.uk).

Together, we can help more women reclaim their power and walk confidently into their best possible lives.

Video 1 - Hilary's Story