Lorisa* is a young woman aged 33 years old. Having suffered horrific abuse as a young child, she found herself being led into a lifestyle of prostitution and came to live in the UK to escape a life of poverty back home. Once in the UK, she remained in the sex industry, mainly because her abusive husband coerced and manipulated her to sell her body in order to support him financially.
WOFM volunteers met Lorisa one night during outreach and offered her help. Over time the team developed a friendly rapport with her and their consistency, kindness and non-judgemental approach helped them to win her trust. It was during this time that they discovered that Lorisa was facing multiple barriers to exit prostitution and find alternative work.
Not only was she living in temporary, unstable accommodation but she was trapped in a toxic relationship and had been addicted to drugs and was now slowly transitioning to methadone. Despite these challenges, WOFM continued to care for and support Lorisa, providing her practical help and a listening ear until she was emotionally ready for change.
Today Lorisa is a much happier person. She gained the courage to separate from her abusive husband, has exited prostitution and is currently in stable employment. Whilst there is still more work to be done in order for Lorisa to heal from the hurt of her past, she is now in a better place and the team will continue to support and come alongside her on her journey of restoration.
*Real names have not been used to protect the identity of the victims