As 2024 comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with challenges, growth, and hope. On a personal level, the year began with difficulties that tested my family and me. Many friends and colleagues faced similar struggles, yet we were fortunate to have the support of loved ones who stood by us during trying times.
However, at times like this my thoughts often turn to the people we work directly with. Those who are not as fortunate, who are forced to leave abusive environments and face overwhelming challenges alone, without the comfort of a loved one’s hug or the warmth of a supportive home.
As we rush to celebrate the festive season with family and friends, let’s take a moment to remember those who cannot. Share a hug, a smile, or a kind word whenever you can it might mean the world to someone.
Stronger Together
This year also brought significant local, national, and international challenges. Across the UK, riots erupted after the tragic knife attack in Southport, where three innocent children: Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Alice da Silva Aguiar (9) lost their lives. These riots were fuelled by false claims from far-right groups accusing the perpetrator of being a Muslim asylum seeker. This misinformation incited hatred, creating fear among many of our clients and even among some of our staff, who were at risk due to their backgrounds.
Despite this, our team demonstrated extraordinary bravery in continuing to support clients, even as we made the difficult decision to close temporarily for everyone’s safety. We were also comforted by the response from communities, here in Merseyside and in towns and cities around the country, where people came together to stand against hatred and defend those at risk, demonstrating how we are always stronger together.
The fight for basic human rights
Globally, women continued to bear the brunt of violence and systemic injustice. Examples include the Iraqi government’s intention to reduce the marriage age from 18 to nine years old, Iran’s imprisonment and torture of women demanding education and freedom, and similar abuse seen in Afghanistan and other places where human rights continue to not be considered. Along with those living in war zones, where women and children remain the most vulnerable, enduring unspeakable violence and abuse, these injustices continue to underscore the persistent fight for basic human rights.
Despite the challenges, 2024 did also see some steps forward. In Colombia, child marriage was banned, a positive sign for children’s rights, and in the UK, there was a landmark conviction for conspiring to commit female genital mutilation (FGM), highlighting the country’s commitment to ending ‘honour’-based abuse and harmful practices.
The power of community
At Savera UK, we have also seen the power of community engagement and collaboration to drive positive change. This year, our International Women’s Day event welcomed over 200 women from diverse backgrounds to celebrate achievements and raise awareness of the inequalities women still face.
We expanded our work in partnership with the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, leading to a 400 per cent increase in referrals in our first year. This collaboration has reinforced what we’ve always known: HBA and harmful practices can occur anywhere, and we must remain vigilant, and we must work collaboratively to identify and end these practices for good.
Throughout the year we have also worked with sector partners from across the UK, campaigning for a statutory definition for ‘honour’-based abuse, which would help to improve identification and responses to HBA and harmful practices.
Our ongoing partnership with the University of Liverpool this year also resulted in the publication of our second research paper, which has gained recognition both nationally and internationally.
Gratitude and Growth
I am incredibly proud of Savera UK’s growth this year. Our team has expanded, demonstrating the increasing need for our work. This progress would not have been possible without the passion, commitment, and dedication of our staff, the leadership of our Board of Trustees, and the unwavering support of our volunteers, funders, commissioners, and donors.
You don’t just provide time or funding, you believe in our mission, and that belief inspires us every day.
As we move into 2025, let us carry forward the lessons of this year: the importance of community, the need to stand together in the face of adversity, and the power of compassion.
Wishing everyone a safe and joyful festive season. Never be afraid to ask for help when you need it and let us continue to work together and be that voice for each other in the year ahead.
Best wishes for 2025,
