For decades, I’ve dedicated my life to fighting for the rights of women and girls, particularly those facing honour-based abuse. My personal experiences, from escaping a forced marriage to witnessing the tragic consequences of abuse within my own family, have fueled this unwavering commitment.
Recently, I spoke with The Telegraph about my ongoing work and the systemic failures that enable abuse within institutions. The article highlights my involvement in two significant cases: my time on the Church of England’s Independent Safeguarding Board (ISB) and my current role as an independent advocate for survivors of abuse at Harrods.
The Church of England: A Culture of Silence and Denial
My experience on the ISB revealed a deeply troubling culture within the Church of England. As I explained to The Telegraph, there was constant resistance to scrutiny and a reluctance to provide necessary information for investigations. This “culture of silence and denial” prevents victims from coming forward and allows abuse to continue unchecked. I raised these concerns with senior figures within the Church, but ultimately, my contract and that of my colleague were terminated.
As the article details, the Church disputes my account, but I stand by my experience. The priority must always be the safety and well-being of survivors, and institutions must be held accountable for their failings.
Harrods: Exposing Complicity and Seeking Justice
My current role as an independent advocate for survivors of abuse at Harrods has further exposed the devastating impact of institutional failures. As I shared with The Telegraph, the scale of the abuse and the number of people who enabled it are deeply disturbing. My focus is on ensuring that these survivors are heard, that they understand their options, and that they receive the support they need.
A Call for Change
These experiences, along with my previous work, underscore a critical need for systemic change. Institutions must prioritize safeguarding, be transparent in their processes, and actively listen to the voices of survivors. We must challenge the cultures of silence and denial that protect perpetrators and perpetuate abuse.
As I told The Telegraph, “The perpetrators will use culture to hide behind: ‘What do you know, you’re white. You don’t understand my culture.’” We cannot allow cultural sensitivity to be weaponized to silence victims and shield abusers.
My journey, from a young girl escaping a forced marriage to becoming a Dame and a leading voice in the fight against abuse, has been long and challenging. But I remain committed to this work. I will continue to speak truth to power, to advocate for survivors, and to fight for a world where everyone is safe from abuse.
Read the full article in The Telegraph: Click here
