Bright Choices
Who We Are
At Bright Choices, we offer free and confidential help to women, men, and families from ethnically diverse backgrounds who have experienced or are at risk of ‘honour-based’ abuse (HBA). This can include domestic abuse, extended family abuse, coercive control, forced marriage, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The Bright Choices service is here to help you stay safe by offering free and confidential support.
What is Honour-based Abuse?
‘Honour-based’ abuse is a pattern of abuse or control carried out by family members or the wider community to protect or restore perceived family honour.
It can involve various forms of abuse, including:
- Psychological abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Immigration abuse
HBA is framed as a response to actions considered shameful or dishonourable, such as: Rejecting a forced marriage Defying cultural expectations Adopting ‘Western’ values, behaviours, or lifestyles Commonly affects women, but men can also be impacted, especially if they challenge family or community beliefs and norms. While “honour” is used as a justification, honour-based abuse is not about culture or tradition—it is an abusive practice. It is never acceptable.
Bright Choices
Emotional Support - with a focus on mental wellbeing and recovery following trauma associated with 'Honour'-based abuse and domestic abuse
Regular One-to-One Meetings - including home visits and meetings within the local community
Creative Nurture Group - weekly women's wellbeing group facilitated by HCPC registered Art Therapists, in collaboration with our partner Aditi and Gender Based Services | Sacro)
Practical Support and Advocacy
Awareness Raising & Education - awareness raising on 'Honour'-Based Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls within education settings, alongside drop in support for students.