First Light Swindon & Wiltshire

02/03/2026

It’s easy to believe that abuse is something that happens to other people, that you’d recognise it if it were affecting someone close to you.

The truth is that many people rarely share their experiences of abuse.
For some, it can take years before they feel able to speak out.

Domestic Abuse and S*xual Violence affect us all.

Every year, thousands of family members, friends, colleagues, neighbours, and children are impacted.

That’s why we provide a wide range of supportive services across Devon, Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, and throughout England & Wales.

We support people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, because everyone deserves to be believed, heard, and supported.

For more information about our services, visit www.Firstlight.org.uk or visit the link in our bio.

We’re here for you, every step of the way.

26/02/2026

Relationships can be amazing, but one of the hardest situations is feeling pressured into something you’re not OK with, especially when it comes to intimacy or boundaries.

If that’s ever happened to you,
first off: you’re not alone.
And second: you have every right to stand your ground.

Here’s what you can do if you ever feel pressured:

Trust your instincts.
If something doesn’t feel right, that feeling matters.

Say “no” clearly and confidently.
You don’t need to explain yourself or justify your boundaries.

Remove yourself from the situation if you can.
Your safety comes first, always.

Reach out to someone you trust.
Talking can help you feel supported and less alone.

Remember: real respect means no pressure, ever.

Healthy relationships are built on understanding, patience, and mutual consent.

If you’re struggling or want support, reaching out to a trusted friend, professional, or support organisation can make a huge difference.

You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to feel heard.

And your boundaries always matter.

23/02/2026

20/02/2026

Bluestar are currently developing a new programme for the Bluestar Project.

The aim is to support children, young people and families to have their voices heard, helping to shape better services for others who have experienced trauma. By sharing experiences, participants can help services, funders and policy‑makers create more informed and effective support.

If you live in Swindon or Wiltshire, are aged 14+, and have experienced sexual trauma, or are a parent/carer of a young person who has,

Bluestar would welcome your involvement in a 1‑to‑1 anonymous interview. If you feel comfortable, please reach out to them.

We are currently working on a programme for the Bluestar Project. It's all about supporting children, young people and families to have their voices heard - ...

19/02/2026

First Light Stands with Harriet as She Shares Her Story

This includes references to child sexual abuse and may be difficult for some readers.

First Light stands in full support of Harriet, who has shared her story and encouraged others affected by sexual abuse to seek help.

In January, Wi******er Crown Court convicted her sister of inciting a child family member to engage in sexual activity after Harriet detailed years of abuse she experienced as a young teenager. The judge issued a 15 month suspended sentence and placed the offender on the S*x Offenders Register for ten years.

Harriet, who was just 13 when the abuse began, spoke powerfully in court about the long term impact of the trauma she endured and her determination to reclaim her future. Addressing her abuser directly, she said:

“This is no longer mine to carry.
This is your shame now.
This is your guilt now.

You must sit with what you did to your baby sister. I will leave here and rebuild my life. I will heal, and I will keep going for myself and for my son.

You, however, will live with this for the rest of your life. And the world will know the truth.”

First Light supported Harriet throughout her journey, along with Horizon Victim Support.

Rach Barr, First Light Independent S*xual Violence Advisor (ISVA) Service Manager, said:

“Harriet’s story is an important reminder that an abuser can be anyone, including people who are meant to protect us, people we trust and people we love.

Harriet’s bravery in sharing her experience, and her powerful words, remind us that we may not always recognise abuse when it is happening, or we may be carrying the impact of abuse and not know where to turn.

We want you to know that you are not alone. Support is available, and you will be believed and supported.”

Harriet also shared that reporting the abuse marked a turning point in her life, giving her the strength and safety to begin healing after years of trauma.

She said:
“I want to give hope to others who have suffered similar abuse that you will be believed and listened to, and supported.

You are not alone.”

At First Light Swindon and Wiltshire, we provide:
• Trauma informed support for anyone affected by sexual violence or sexual abuse
• Specialist Independent S*xual Violence Advisors (ISVA)
• Emotional and practical guidance throughout police and court processes
• A safe, confidential space to talk at your own pace
• S*xual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) support
You will be believed.
You will be listened to.

You are not alone.

If you need support

If you have been affected by sexual violence, whether recently or in the past, our specialist teams are here for you.

We are here to help you take the next step whenever you feel ready.

Read the full story at: https://www.firstlight.org.uk/news_and_stories/first-light-stands-with-harriet-as-she-shares-her-story/

First Light Stands with Harriet as She Shares Her Story

This includes references to child sexual abuse and may be difficult for some readers.

First Light stands in full support of Harriet, who has shared her story and encouraged others affected by sexual abuse to seek help.

In January, Wi******er Crown Court convicted her sister of inciting a child family member to engage in sexual activity after Harriet detailed years of abuse she experienced as a young teenager. The judge issued a 15 month suspended sentence and placed the offender on the S*x Offenders Register for ten years.

Harriet, who was just 13 when the abuse began, spoke powerfully in court about the long term impact of the trauma she endured and her determination to reclaim her future. Addressing her abuser directly, she said:

“This is no longer mine to carry.
This is your shame now.
This is your guilt now.

You must sit with what you did to your baby sister. I will leave here and rebuild my life. I will heal, and I will keep going for myself and for my son.

You, however, will live with this for the rest of your life. And the world will know the truth.”

First Light supported Harriet throughout her journey, along with Horizon Victim Support.

Rach Barr, First Light Independent S*xual Violence Advisor (ISVA) Service Manager, said:

“Harriet’s story is an important reminder that an abuser can be anyone, including people who are meant to protect us, people we trust and people we love.

Harriet’s bravery in sharing her experience, and her powerful words, remind us that we may not always recognise abuse when it is happening, or we may be carrying the impact of abuse and not know where to turn.

We want you to know that you are not alone. Support is available, and you will be believed and supported.”

Harriet also shared that reporting the abuse marked a turning point in her life, giving her the strength and safety to begin healing after years of trauma.

She said:
“I want to give hope to others who have suffered similar abuse that you will be believed and listened to, and supported.

You are not alone.”

Read the full story at: https://www.firstlight.org.uk/news_and_stories/first-light-stands-with-harriet-as-she-shares-her-story/

12/02/2026

AI is changing EVERYTHING the way we live, learn, and have relationships and we want to hear how it’s affecting you.

FearFree and First Light have teamed up to run a survey to find out what young people think about AI and how you use it.

Your answers will help us make sure that the support we provide fits the world we're living in today.

It's quick, easy, and totally confidential.

Click the link below or in our bio.
https://forms.office.com/e/RPZKKnSKEG

11/02/2026

If you have a moment, please help with this survey for Swindon Borough Council.

This safe, confidential survey invites survivors to share their experiences of reporting domestic abuse and where services can be strengthened.

To help improve how we respond to domestic abuse, we're running a lived experience survey 🤍

This safe, confidential survey invites survivors to share their experiences of reporting domestic abuse and where services can be strengthened.

We know that reflecting on these experiences can be difficult and we're grateful to everyone who feels able to take part. Your insight is invaluable and will directly shape future improvements, training and more responsive support in Swindon.

Take part in the survey - https://ow.ly/y6k650Y1ByQ

11/02/2026

Our S*xual Violence and Abuse Services attended Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to raise awareness of our S*xual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and our Independent S*xual Violence Advisor (ISVA) Service.

We provided information and advice about the vital support available to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual abuse and needs help.

Our team were on hand to answer questions and increase awareness as part of S*xual Violence and S*xual Abuse Awareness Week.

Join us throughout February as we continue our Healthy Relationships and Toxic Behaviours Awareness Month.

A huge thank you to Great Western Hospital and their teams for welcoming us and providing the space to engage with staff and visitors.

*xualViolenceAwarenessWeek

Our Swindon and Wiltshire S*xual Violence and Abuse Services attended Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to raise awareness of our S*xual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and our Independent S*xual Violence Advisor (ISVA) Service.

We provided information and advice about the vital support available to anyone who has experienced any form of sexual abuse and needs help.

Our team were on hand to answer questions and increase awareness as part of S*xual Violence and S*xual Abuse Awareness Week.

Join us throughout February as we continue our Healthy Relationships and Toxic Behaviours Awareness Month.

A huge thank you to Great Western Hospital and their teams for welcoming us and providing the space to engage with staff and visitors.

*xualViolenceAwarenessWeek

10/02/2026

Harm doesn’t disappear just because it happens behind a screen.

Whether it’s threats, stalking, harassment, or controlling behaviour, digital abuse has real‑world impact.

This Safer Internet Day, we’re calling for stronger protections, safer platforms, and a culture that takes digital harm seriously.

06/02/2026

So what is harassment and stalking?

Harassment and stalking can be scary, confusing, and difficult to talk about. Both behaviours can leave someone feeling uncomfortable, unsafe, or watched.

What matters most is how the person on the receiving end feels, not the intention behind the behaviour.

If something feels too much, too intense, or too intrusive, it’s important to take it seriously.

You deserve to feel safe, respected, and in control.

05/02/2026

Have you ever experienced abuse after saying NO on a dating app?

👇 Share your experiences in the comments below

Have you ever experienced abuse after saying NO on a dating app?

👇 Share your experiences in the comments below