North East wellbeing centre supports young survivors of domestic abuse
The Hebburn support group hopes to provide a safe space for young people
Between March 2024 and February 2025, there were over 5,000 domestic violence incidents reported in South Tyneside.
In 45% of these cases, there were children and young people in the home who had witnessed this violence.
These statistics pulled on the heartstrings of Hebburn business owner, Stacey Hegarty, who is offering a new kind of support group that uses physical exercise to improve the mental health of participants.
Through her community interest company, Dottir CIC, Stacey has already supported 25 adult women who have experienced domestic abuse to become stronger both mentally and physically through strength and fitness and personal development sessions.
Now Dottir CIC, based at Dottir Wellbeing Centre in Hebburn, is offering this support to the younger generation in the form of an 8-week Strong Body, Strong Minds programme for girls aged 14-16.
Stacey, Founder of Dottir CIC and Owner of Dottir Wellbeing Centre, said: "Before retraining as a personal trainer, I worked for many years as a counsellor for children and young people.
"One of my main focuses was working with those who had experienced domestic or sexual abuse, whether experiencing it themselves or witnessing it within the home.
"I saw first-hand the impact that this could have on their mental health and their lives overall.
"I want to help these young people not only build their strength and resilience, but also provide a safe space for them to offload."
The weekly support groups consist of a 45-minute strength and fitness workout, then a 45-minute personal development session focusing on topics like healthy relationships, signs of abuse, understanding emotions and mental health in a creative way.
Stacey added: "I want to give these young people the space to understand what they have experienced, and give them a toolkit to help them through the emotions and difficulties they may experience as a result."
Participants of the adult support programme benefited hugely from attending the groups, with many saying the opportunity to get to know other people in similar situations has helped the most.
One participant said: "Being part of the group has helped massively, being able to talk about my trauma in a safe space.
"My confidence has improved as I know I am not alone and I have pride in the achievements I have made."