PC Saara Nawaz responded to a distress call regarding a domestic violence incident in 2023, where she found herself comforting the survivor on the street. The survivor had reported being strangled by her partner, leading to the suspect’s arrest. Despite initial resistance from the survivor, Saara’s personal history as a domestic abuse survivor enabled her to connect with the woman and encourage her to share her story.
Having transitioned from a policy officer and youth worker to a police officer following her own experience with domestic abuse, Saara is now shedding light on the alarming statistics revealed in the annual Domestic Homicide Report. With 347 deaths recorded in the past year, organizations like Refuge are raising awareness about the prevalent issue, labeling it as reaching “epidemic levels.”
In recent news, Jess Phillips, the minister tasked with addressing Violence and Girls, resigned from Keir Starmer’s government due to concerns over the slow pace of change in combating domestic violence. Reflecting on her own past, Saara revealed that she, like many other women, never reported her abuser’s crimes, contributing to her decision to pursue a career where she could advocate for survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
Transitioning from a response officer to a neighborhood officer at Nottinghamshire Police, Saara now dedicates her time to supporting survivors through collaborative efforts with healthcare providers, social services, and specialized organizations. Drawing from her own isolation and fear during her abusive relationship, Saara emphasizes the importance of breaking the silence and seeking help, as staying silent only serves to protect the abuser.
Sharing her personal journey of escalating abuse from a seemingly caring partner to a controlling and violent individual, Saara highlights the complexities of leaving an abusive relationship and the psychological toll it takes on the survivor. Despite facing challenges and self-doubt, Saara eventually found the strength to break free and seek support, underscoring the vital role of education and empowerment in combating domestic violence.
As Saara continues her mission to confront abusers and support survivors, she urges others to speak out and seek assistance, emphasizing that leaving an abusive situation is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards reclaiming one’s safety and well-being. By sharing her story, Saara hopes to inspire others to take the first step towards seeking help and breaking free from the cycle of abuse.
For immediate support and information, individuals can contact the Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline operated by Refuge at 0808 2000 247. In emergency situations, always dial 999.
