A Safe Space, A Supportive Sisterhood, A Life-Changing Programme

 

 

“Contacting NIDAS was the best thing I have done for myself in a long time.”

That’s how one of the participants summed up her journey through the Power to Change programme — and her words say it all.

At NIDAS (Nottinghamshire Independent Domestic Abuse Services), we understand that rebuilding after abuse is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Every woman carries her own story, her own battles, and her own brave decision to start again.

The Power to Change group programme is built around that truth — providing fully funded, supportive, peer-led spaces where women can begin to reclaim their power, independence, and sense of self.

 

What is Power to Change?

Power to Change is an 8-week, self-help wellbeing programme designed for women who have experienced domestic abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviour. It offers more than just a weekly meeting — it provides understanding, healing, connection, and growth.

Each session focuses on key areas like:

• Needs and self-evaluation
• Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries
• Understanding emotions and regaining confidence
• Basic rights, assertiveness, and healthy relationships
• Endings, new beginnings, and rebuilding self-worth

All in a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space.

As one attendee shared,

“It felt safe to talk and the group was non-judgmental… beneficial to follow on from Freedom with the same group of women.”

 

Real Impact, Real Voices

We asked the women from our most recent group (Jan–Mar 2025) to share their experiences. Here’s what they told us:

“I now try and think through my actions and start to base them on my own also… learning to try and not overthink and understanding why it is.”

“It helped me to understand myself better to be able to move forward into healthy relationships.”

This programme fills a critical gap in post-abuse recovery. Several women told us it was exactly what they needed after completing the Freedom Programme — giving them the tools to go deeper into their healing journey.

“The course was very insightful. It was beneficial after doing the Freedom course as it felt like there was a gap in support after it had ended.”

When asked how they felt after completing the group, 3 women said they felt significantly better. 1 said slightly better — but all said they felt supported and changed.

 

What Made the Difference?

It wasn’t just the curriculum — it was the sense of connection, community, and the shared journey that made this programme powerful.

 

“I have learned I am not alone and have learned to put those boundaries in place.”

“The way that simple changes can change our lives in a positive way.”

“Every week I took something from it.”

Every single participant said they would recommend this programme to others — and not because they had to, but because they believe in what it did for them.

“A great course for anyone needing to open their eyes to their self-worth.”

“The course has had a massive impact on my life already and it’s given me so much to think about even in everyday life.”

“I think more of myself and what I deserve and less about ‘what if’s’.”

And our team? They felt the love too:

“Kelsa was amazing and hope she is proud of herself for delivering such a personal course. I couldn’t have got through this course without her and the other women in the group.”

“Thank you, I am sad it’s over.”

 

A Great Opportunity for Self Reflection

Of course, healing isn’t always easy. Some participants found the emotional work tough. That’s what they replied when we asked them about the aspects of the course that were particularly hard for them and why:

“All of it, as I am still in the process of sorting out my divorce, but still happy that I attended.”

“Guilt, expressing myself, and learning I have weak boundaries.”

“Trying to put things into place with my dynamic family, and understanding that my life wasn’t always like this and thinking about situations that changed me and my confidence.”

“Talking about myself and remembering my previous tough times.”

But even in these moments, the group provided strength.

That’s why we want to do more. Several women shared that they wished the sessions were longer or that there was more time to go deeper into each topic:

“More time for each session to work through the materials.”

“More sessions with some of the topics to go into more detail and run over a couple of sessions.”

We hear them — and we want to respond. But to expand and enhance these sessions, we need the community’s help.

If you’re a local business, organisation or individual who believes in supporting women’s safety, wellbeing and growth, we’d love to talk.

There are so many ways to support us — and not all of them involve money. Whether it’s offering a space, sharing our message, or helping raise funds, your support could change lives.

 

Want to Join or Help?

If you or someone you know might benefit from the Power to Change programme or any of our other services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone, and you do not have to go through this alone.

Call us: 01623 683 250
Email us: [email protected]

Want to support our work instead? We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re a business, community group, or individual wanting to make a difference — we welcome your support in any form.

Together, we can give more women the power to change — and keep that power growing.