Jahmene Douglas from X Factor 2012 & Alesha Dixon, Women's Aid Supporter

Zawe Ashton, Actress from 'Fresh Meat'

 
Jahmene Douglas from X Factor 2012 and his mum Mandy Thomas

Alesha Dixon, Women's Aid Supporter and Avon's Beauty and Empowerment Ambassador

 
Jahmene Douglas, X Factor 2012 contestant

Woman survivor -Sharon Waugh

Beginning in 1984 Sharon suffered violence at the hands of her husband. The violence didn’t stop and culminated when he broke into her flat and stabbed Sharon. In 1989 he was convicted of grievous bodily harm with intent and rape. On release their small daughter was physically and emotionally abused by her father. For the last 15 years, Sharon has supported women who are experiencing domestic violence in various different roles, including campaigning for a Domestic Violence Court in Westminster. Driving her forward has been the desire to never have another woman feels as lonely as she did.

Child Survivor-Charlotte Fantelli

Starting when she was just 9, Charlotte was abused, suffering extreme trauma until she was 18. Charlotte suffered both violent and sexual abuse. As a result Charlotte suffered mental health problems, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and phobic disorders. Since escaping, Charlotte has channelled her experiences into helping other survivors and people struggling with mental health issues surrounding abuse. Now a successful entrepreneur Charlotte launched the first ever mental health magazine, 'Uncovered’, and mental health website, which has been voted, number one destination online for mental health.

Grass Roots Hero-Eleanor Maddocks

Inspired by her own experience of domestic violence after her escape to a new area on her own with 6 children, Eleanor set up the West Lancashire Women's Refuge in 1987, after being shocked by the lack of services within the community. Over the last 25 years, through her sheer determination and passion the organisation has grown rapidly, achieving the development of services critical for women and children, including setting up and maintaining the West Lancashire Domestic Violence Forum, achieving 24-hour service, launching the 24-hour Domestic Violence Helpline and setting up an outreach service.  Eleanor’s on going inspiration comes from seeing women starting to rebuild their lives, confidence and self-esteem.

Judges Choice- Vera Baird

Vera Baird QC has been an inspirational and highly influential character in the fight against violence against women. In her legal career and throughout her various roles in politics, including MP for Redcar, Parliamentary backbencher, Chair of the Fawcett Commission on Women and the Criminal Justice system and Solicitor General for England and Wales in 2007 to 2010, Vera has worked determinedly to shape legislation and change misconceptions around persecution of violence against women. She has been involved and instrumental in monumental changes in legislation such as the Domestic Violence Bill 2003-04. She has also been elected as Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, pledging to listen to the experiences of women and use creative means to tackle domestic violence, continuing her mission and work to make women safe everywhere.