Has anyone done the Fredoom Programme?

[RussianGold]

I'm currently trying to recover from 7 years of abuse as I'm worried about my 2 year old daughter's safety.

I'm doing the online course, a few pages in to the book and starting to question society but it's also amplifying my fear of men.

Just want to know if it helped anyone and changed their life?

Were you able to trust men again?

I did it a couple of years ago. It has changed my life for the better, but I found it emotionally challenging at times.

ladyballs

What do you mean by "emotionally challenging"?

Was it triggering at times?

I did but did it in group sessions. It was hugely beneficial and made me realise I was not alone and I was doing the right thing by starting a new life without the abuser. My dd was 2 at the time as well.

My daughter is on it right now and wishes that she had done it sooner. The guide about how to spot a controller is absolutely brilliant.

I recommend you do the course with others. There is so much good from doing it with others: it breaks the isolation of abuse, you meet some great women, you exchange tips, you get excellent support from the facilitators.

Doing it on your own can be traumatising and isolating. Just what you don't need! The online course may be good for general info for those who haven't experienced domestic abuse but not for those of us who have. Imo.

It is a wonderful course. I wish every woman who do it. Absolutely life changing.

*would do it

If you are based in the NW there is an alternative course, which is excellent. PM me if you are.

Doing the Freedom Programme reminds me of when I read Toni Morrison's Beloved in my A level class - I could cope with the content when I studied it with other people, wouldn't have been able to read it alone.

springy

I was going to sign up to do the course with others, but I've developed social anxiety so feel vulnerable aroumd people even women.

Maybe I should give a try then, to help me in my recovery from my ptsd.

Hoping

I'm in Essex. Is the other course only avaible in the NW?

I'm not the best at socialising or meeting new people but there was absolutely nothing daunting about going there once I'd actually stepped through the door the first time. I met women who were in much worse situations than mine who were so strong and seeing their strength and bravery helped me a lot. Honestly I really couldn't recommend it enough.
The women who delivered the course we're great too. Very approachable and easy going.

It made a massive (positive) difference to my life and the way I viewed things regarding my abusive relationship and I’m so glad I did it. It is tough going at times and not a guarantee it’ll work but definitely worth trying.

It has changed my view on men but in a good way. My standards are much higher (tbf they couldn’t have been much lower). I have a new partner now who is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met but I do understand your fear. Give yourself time. Good luck

Hi
Had a quick look at the freedom project website. It appears that there are courses in Clacton, Colchester, Southend and Westcliffe or Leigh on Sea. There are also several courses just over the border in Suffolk. (sudbury, Gt cornard Bury St Edmonds ). If you are in West Essex Bassingborn might be accessible.
HTH

Search for a course near you

When you apply to the facilitators you do it by email - when they reply you can tell them then about your fears and social anxiety. They will be very accommodating and supportive, giving you a lot of space to do what is comfortable for you.

Only in the N/NW at the moment.

My dd is doing it at the moment- she is finding it challenging but incredibly helpful.