From my first visit to the refuge in March I bounced back and forth from a very dangerous man to safety. Each time I returned I was covered in bruises. Eventually I settled there in June. I cried, shouted, drank, felt bitter and angry - my head went through a turmoil of emotions. Three months later I'm still here, I still struggle but things are getting easier.

At last I am making my own decisions ... not being dictated to. I am attending college - something I would not have been allowed to do. I am liberated! I can choose my own clothes, go where I like, speak to whom I choose. I am living in peace, no more walking on eggshells.

My ex-partner is a good looking, charming, articulate, tender, loving man. He is also a serial woman beater and a very very dangerous man. My physical injuries are gone but the mental scars will take a long time to fade.

I am grateful to the Refuge and Loughborough Women's Aid for all of their support and advice. The workers are fantastic and help you every step of the way. I may have lost my trust, house, dog, possessions but I have gained wisdom and self-respect and the opportunity to rebuild my life, be re-housed and return to normality.

My advice to any sufferers of domestic violence whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or economical is to leave. No matter how much your partner pleads and begs and promises "That was the last time .... I'll never hurt you again." He is lying .... It will happen again. If I had carried on listening I would probably be dead now. Do not suffer in silence, get in touch with the relevant agencies, confide in someone you trust, plan your escape, save a little money, pack an emergency bag and leave. Your life is the most important issue.

Written by a former resident of Loughborough Women's Aid Refuge (who has got her dog back)