Free online talks to support victims of domestic abuse
IDAS is launching the sessions to mark International Women's Day
As the world marks International Women’s Day on 8th March, IDAS, a Yorkshire based charity supporting people in Barnsley, North Yorkshire, Sheffield and York, is launching a new series of free online talks to provide vital support and information for survivors of domestic abuse. The talks are being supported by IDAS Ambassadors who have lived experience of abuse and will be on hand to lend their expertise and support.
The first session, “How Abusers Trap You in a Cycle of Abuse,” will take place on Thursday 6th March at 6 PM, helping survivors understand the tactics abusers use and how to break free.
These talks come at a crucial time. Domestic abuse continues to impact one in four women, yet many survivors may struggle to access help and support. Charities like IDAS are seeing year-on-year increases in helpline calls and referral numbers.
IDAS is offering these confidential online sessions to break down barriers to getting support and to ensure that no one has to face abuse alone.
The online talks cover key topics that aim to empower survivors to move forward:
🔹 How Abusers Trap You in a Cycle of Abuse – Understanding coercive control and manipulation (6th March, 6 PM)
🔹 How to Secure Your Financial Independence – Practical steps to regain control over finances (10th April, 6 PM)
🔹 How to Break Bonds Forged by Trauma – Overcoming emotional ties that keep survivors trapped
🔹 How to Talk to Children About Domestic Abuse – Helping children understand and heal
Each session is completely private – attendees can listen in without being seen or heard, and there’s an optional live chat after each talk for one-on-one support.
Why Now?
International Women’s Day 2025 calls for accelerated action towards equality – true inclusion relies on ending violence against women and ensuring that survivors have access to the knowledge, resources, and support they need to reclaim their independence.
By offering these free, accessible, and confidential online talks, IDAS is taking action to support women, and anyone who is impacted by abuse.
Carmel Offord, IDAS Engagement Manager says, “We are committed to ensuring that survivors of domestic abuse can access support in ways that feel safe, flexible, and right for them. Our new online talks are an innovative way to provide information and guidance in a completely confidential setting, allowing people to engage at their own pace, without pressure. These sessions add to the wide range of support we already offer at IDAS, ensuring that no matter someone’s circumstances, they can find the help they need in a way that works for them."
Emma, an IDAS Ambassador, and survivor of domestic abuse says, "When you’re experiencing abuse, it can be so hard to know where to turn or even what’s happening to you. Having access to these online talks means people can get the information they need without fear or pressure. Knowing I could have listened to something like this in private, without anyone seeing me, would have made such a difference when I was trying to find a way out. I think these sessions will help so many people feel less alone and more in control of their future."