I Need Help

Whether you’re saying “I need help” for the first time or have been searching for answers for a long time, First Light is here for you.

We believe in your strength, your story, and your right to live free from fear, violence, and abuse.

You are not alone.

We’re here to listen. We’re here to believe you.
We’re here to support you in creating a future free from abuse and fear.

Use our Navigator to
find what you need.

How we can help

At First Light, we understand how difficult it can be to reach out when you’re experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence or church-related abuse. Whether it’s happening now or has happened in the past, we want you to know: you are not alone, and support is available.

Our team of caring and professional specialists are here to

  • Listen to you without judgment
  • Believe you and validate your experience
  • Support you in making decisions that are right for you
  • Advocate for you when you feel you can’t speak
  • Help you find safety, support and Justice. 

Learn More About

What We Offer

Sexual Violence Support

Experiencing sexual violence, rape, sexual assault or any type of sexual abuse can leave deep emotional and physical impacts. Our trained professionals are here to support you, offering a safe space to talk, crisis support, advocacy, and ongoing help. We understand the courage it takes to reach out and we will be here when you are ready.

Domestic Abuse Support

If you are living with, or have lived with, domestic abuse, we can help you find safety, understand your options, and rebuild your life. We work at your pace, respecting your choices, and providing both practical and emotional support.

Church-Related Abuse Support

Through the national Safe Spaces service, we provide independent, specialist help to anyone affected by abuse because of their relationship with the church. You can speak to us in complete confidence, knowing we understand the unique challenges this can bring and will always respect your story and choices.

Sexual Violence Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Domestic Abuse Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Church-Related Abuse Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Sexual Violence Support

Experiencing sexual violence, rape, sexual assault or any type of sexual abuse can leave deep emotional and physical impacts. Our trained professionals are here to support you, offering a safe space to talk, crisis support, advocacy, and ongoing help. We understand the courage it takes to reach out and we will be here when you are ready.

Sexual Violence Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Domestic Abuse Support

If you are living with, or have lived with, domestic abuse, we can help you find safety, understand your options, and rebuild your life. We work at your pace, respecting your choices, and providing both practical and emotional support.

Domestic Abuse Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Church-Related Abuse Support

Through the national Safe Spaces service, we provide independent, specialist help to anyone affected by abuse because of their relationship with the church. You can speak to us in complete confidence, knowing we understand the unique challenges this can bring and will always respect your story and choices.

Church-Related Abuse Support

For Myself

Someone I Know

Professional Support

Make a Referral

Immediate Help

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999. For non-emergencies, dial 101.

If you need advice or support now, contact one of our helplines:

  • Swindon & Wiltshire (Sexual Violence): 01793 781916
  • ISVA Services (Swindon & Wiltshire): 0300 373 2715
  • ISVA Services (Gloucestershire): 01452 222 352
  • Plymouth (Counselling): 03458 12 12 12
  • Church-Related Abuse: 0300 303 1356

I Need Help — What Do I Do?

If you’ve found yourself searching for answers, wondering what to do next, and thinking “I need help,” please know this: you are not alone. Whether you are experiencing domestic abuse, have been sexually assaulted, or are struggling to understand what’s happening to you, First Light is here to support you.

We understand how overwhelming it can feel to reach out. You may be scared, confused, ashamed, or unsure whether what you’re experiencing is abuse. You may be asking yourself, “What do I do now?” That question is the beginning of your journey toward safety and support, and we’re here to help you.

What Happens When You Reach Out

We know that asking for help can feel daunting. You may worry about being judged, misunderstood, or not believed. At First Light, we meet every person with compassion, respect, and understanding. When you reach out, you will be supported by professionals who are trained in trauma-informed care and who understand the impact of abuse and assault.

You do not need to have all the answers. You do not need to explain everything perfectly. You only need to take the first step and we will be here to support you from that moment forward. Our services are confidential, inclusive, and tailored to your needs. We will help you explore your options, make informed decisions, and provide the support you need.

If you’re not sure whether what happened to you is abuse – that’s okay.

You can still contact us. We’ll listen and help you make sense of it.

You do not have to go through this alone.

We’re here for you – whenever you’re ready.

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