Cheria Raw

"Growing up, I experienced domestic abuse and often felt stuck in that lifestyle. This motivated me to find ways to help other children and young people facing similar challenges, ensuring they get the support they need.

I was the only person in my family to go to university and I wasn’t in contact with them or my foster families at the point of applying, so the We Care Team were all I had. They honestly moved heaven and earth to support me.

The We Care Team have helped me more than pretty much anyone in my whole life. They’ve offered me 24/7 support, whether that’s someone to ring and have a rant to or to meet over coffee and cake. They helped me not only on an academic level, but on a personal level. They were like a little family to me.

Their all-round support played a major part in boosting my confidence whilst at university – there were many times I wanted to drop out, but they believed in me that I could finish my degree.

When I shared my goal of working with children and families affected by domestic abuse, the We Care Team was incredibly supportive. They guided me through the application process, and I was offered the job a few weeks before graduation. Now, I have the chance to support others in the same way I was supported."