Last month, Savera UK brought together more than 40 clients and their families for an incredible visit to Knowsley Safari Park. This event and other social occasions like it are significant in our clients’  journeys towards healing and empowerment as survivors of ‘honour’-based abuse (HBA) and harmful practices.

For survivors of HBA and harmful practices, the likelihood of isolation and loneliness is high. This may be due to the rejection by family members and/or the community, fear, a lack of trust, or language/financial barriers. Savera UK’s wellbeing and empowerment programme, which includes group days out like this one, aims to build community and social networks and is crucial for survivors as they start their ‘savera’ or ‘new beginning’.

Simple pleasures

The day began with anticipation and excitement as everyone gathered at the meeting spot. For many of our clients, this was a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, although for some, it was their first group outing since starting their journey with us, so a mix of emotions was recognised. However, we boarded the coach, there was an immediate sense of belonging, with conversations flowing and smiles all around.

As we drove through the safari park, we saw zebra, buffalo, deer, rhinos and many more. Each animal was met with wide eyes and gasps of amazement as we observed their natural interactions with one another. We were also lucky to watch the sea lions show, where we were stunned by their tricks and humorous timing. 

The day out was not just about experiencing the beauty of nature; it was about reconnecting with the world and enjoying the simple pleasures. This brought a joy that many of our clients had not felt in a long time.

Joy plays a vital role in the healing process, it can counterbalance the emotional pain and suffering of trauma. Joyful events can also bring the survivor a sense of normality  and give way for them to rebuild their life as they’re given hope that it  can improve. 

Being present

Our clients also enjoyed a  variety of other attractions at the park, including many rides for children. It allowed clients to take their mind off their individual worries, being present and surrounded by family and friends. 

One survivor said:  “It was so lovely to be able to take my mind off everything and watch my kids play without overthinking”.

Living in the moment deflects the constant replaying of traumatic memories and helps the survivor to feel less anxious and stressed. The traumatic experiences that survivors of HBA and harmful practices have been through can instil worry and fear as the survivor feels as if they cannot mentally escape the torment of their perpetrator(s). Savera UK’s wellbeing and empowerment programme aims to help survivors work through this and move forward with confidence.

Emotional Intervention

On the coach journey back,  conversations were filled with laughter, hope and a sense of community as each client shared  their experience at the park.  

It is important that survivors feel understood and accepted, and to be able to connect with others who have shared similar experiences, as it can be validating and comforting. Survivors can be reluctant to speak on their experiences, sometimes  due to a fear of  judgement or rejection. 

However, meeting someone with a similar experience can build a network allowing for emotional help and intervention, which can foster resilience and help a survivor’s journey to their new beginning. At Savera UK, we work to foster a welcoming community, hosting weekly group activities as well as days out and other experiences. Our aim is to bring friendship, belonging and joy to our clients’ lives. 

Thank you to everyone who made  this wonderful trip possible, most of all our clients for their bravery, sense of adventure and care for one another.

 

Blog written by Nia Glouden, Knowsley Safari Park: A Day of Healing and Connecting