Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 01/10/2026The Government must continue to fund the SMV beyond March 2027 while introducing the long-term reforms needed to ensure migrant victim-survivors can access safety and protections on equal terms. (3) 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 01/10/2026But the vital safety net provided by the scheme, currently funded only until March 2027, cannot substitute for the long-term structural support migrant victim-survivors with No Recourse to Public Funds desperately need. (2) 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 01/10/2026Since 2021, the Support for Migrant Victims (SMV) scheme has supported thousands of women to escape abuse & access vital temporary support. 5 years on, the Government has pledged continued investment in the SMV through its first VAWG Strategy. (1) Read our full analysis here: tinyurl.com/mrynsm5ksouthallblacksisters.org.ukFive Years of the Support for Migrant Victims Scheme: A Vital Safety Net, But Not a Long-Term Solution - Southall Black SistersThe No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) condition makes women three times more likely to be subjected to violence against women and girls (VAWG). 111
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 24/09/2026We are delighted to announce that Southall Black Sisters has been awarded £92,136 through the Cabinet Office Evaluation Accelerator Fund for our Safe and Sane project that addresses significant evidence gap by investigating the prevalence and costs of abuse-related-suicide and attempted suicide. 052
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 10/09/2026If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please contact our confidential helpline on 0208 571 0800 or email helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk for help. 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 10/09/2026This World Suicide Prevention Day, we are calling for abuse-related suicide to be properly recognised. Prevention means recognising the role that abuse can play, responding to risk early and ensuring women can access the specialist support and protection they need. Every woman deserves to be safe. 1147
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026Too often, abuse-related suicide remains overlooked, particularly in the experiences of Black, minoritised and migrant women. Urgent legal reform is needed to change this. We honour Michelle’s life and carry her memory with us in the fight for justice. 🕯️ 7/7 010
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026We stand in solidarity with Michelle’s family in their call for accountability and continue to campaign for abuse-related suicide to be explicitly recognised within the criminal justice system as murder, with clear duties to investigate, prosecute and hold perpetrators accountable. 6/7 110
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026"...Michelle’s life meant something, like so many other women who have felt that suicide was their only option. This will only stop when perpetrators are held accountable for their actions..." 5/7 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026"...All because the Police only associate cuts and bruises with domestic abuse. Not mental and psychological abuse and the link with suicide..." 4/7 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026"...Her struggle to cope with her ex-partner’s abusive behaviour. The loss of contact with our nephews since her death and the knowledge that her abuser faces no consequences for his actions..." 3/7 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026As we remember Michelle today, her family have shared a message reflecting on their loss and their call for accountability. "5 years and we are still affected by the suicide of our little sister Michelle..." 2/7 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/08/2026Our thoughts are with Michelle and her family today, as we mark five years since her death. Michelle was a beautiful soul who lit up every room she walked into. She was taken from this world far too soon, but she continues to live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her. 1/7 122
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 27/08/2026TW: Distressing content. There is NO HONOUR in 'honour'-based abuse. If you are experiencing or at risk of abuse, please call our helpline on 020 8571 0800 or email helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk for free, confidential advice and support. You are not alone. 056
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 25/08/2026Our joint statement on the Home Office's guide for asylum seekers on 'Understanding behaviours and expectations in the UK' Pt. 2 011
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 25/08/2026Our joint statement on the Home Office's guide for asylum seekers on 'Understanding behaviours and expectations in the UK' 👇🏾 @evawuk.bsky.social @imkaanuk.bsky.social @4refugeewomen.bsky.social @lawrsuk.bsky.social @asylummatters.bsky.social 162
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 21/08/2026On World Suicide Prevention Day, Dr. Hannana Siddique from Southall Black Sisters will be joining a webinar hosted by Advance to discuss the intersection of gender, domestic abuse & suicidality drawing from our frontline experience. 📅 10 September 🕚 11am - 12pm www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1997688249... 021
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 10/08/2026Our statement on the Tory plan to ban migrants from social housing and the risks it poses to migrant women fleeing abuse. ⬇️ 022
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 05/08/2026‘The very same people that were meant to protect her, they took her life like she was trash that just got taken out.’ Bekhal Mahmod joins Zara McDermott on Truth Be Told to share Banaz’s story, the failures that led to her murder, and the need for Banaz's Law. Listen: youtu.be/QZk28w5AVCc?... 001
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 03/08/2026We stand in solidarity with Rajiv Menon KC. These contempt proceedings threaten the trust between lawyers and clients and risk a chilling effect on fearless advocacy. We urge that they be dropped. Read the open letter signed by Rajiv's former clients: www.theguardian.com/law/2026/jul.... 011
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 30/07/2026We look forward to continuing to engage with Minister @alexdaviesjones.bsky.social MP to help move these campaigns forward. 3/3 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 30/07/2026We also discussed the need for suicide driven by abuse to be recognised and responded to as murder, and reflected on our shared commitment to building a victim-survivor centred system that leaves no woman behind. 2/3 100
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 30/07/2026It was a pleasure to host colleagues from the Ministry of Justice earlier this week at our office in Southall. We discussed our ongoing campaign for Banaz's Law, which calls for 'honour'-based abuse to be recognised as an aggravating factor in sentencing, alongside robust multi-agency guidance. 1/3 111
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 29/07/2026Southall Black Sisters stands with Rajiv against the unprecedented attempt to prosecute him for contempt of court. We call on this current Government to intervene immediately and halt legal proceedings against Rajiv. Sign the petition to show your support tinyurl.com/SaveOurJuries 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 28/07/2026Being forced to marry to protect your family’s ‘honour’ is abuse. Your voice, and consent, matters. If you are worried, please email our helpline at helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk; the telephone helpline is available from 10th August on 020 8571 0800 for confidential free advice and support. 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 23/07/2026Dowry-related abuse is often disguised as ‘gifts’ or ‘loving exchanges between families’. But it is abuse. If you are worried, free & confidential support is available via our helpline at helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk; the telephone helpline is available from 10th August on 020 8571 0800. 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 20/07/2026Abuse in the name of ‘honour’ is often woven into everyday life. If you are worried about yourself, support is available. Please email our helpline at helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk for confidential free advice and support. The telephone helpline is available from 10th August on 020 8571 0800. 032
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 16/07/2026There is no ‘honour’ in ‘honour’-based abuse.✊🏾 If you are experiencing ‘honour’-based abuse, or are worried about someone, please email our helpline at helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk. The telephone helpline is available from 10th August on 020 8571 0800 for confidential free advice and support 021
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 14/07/2026Today we remember Banaz Mahmod and every woman and girl whose life has been taken in the name of so-called ‘honour’. We continue to stand firm in our calls for #BanazsLaw and the reforms needed to protect women, strengthen accountability and prevent further loss of life. #DayOfMemory 084
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 03/07/2026🚨🚨 Last two days left to apply! 🚨🚨 We’re hiring for four vital impact led roles. If you’re committed to challenging injustice and supporting Black, minoritised and migrant women, we’d love to hear from you. Find out more here: southallblacksisters.org.uk/get-involved...southallblacksisters.org.ukWork with us - Southall Black SistersWe have secured critical reforms that have advanced the cause of gender equality, justice, and human rights for Black and minoritised women through our advocacy, advice, policy and lobbying work - but... 023
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 01/07/2026Six months on from the Govt's VAWG Strategy, the structural barriers determining whether migrant women can actually reach safety remain largely unaddressed. This month, we assess progress across key policy areas in our six-month accountability report. southallblacksisters.org.uk/news/vawg-st...southallblacksisters.org.ukVAWG Strategy Watch: Six-Month Accountability Report - Southall Black Sistersix months after the publication of the Government's violence against women and girls (VAWG) Strategy, Freedom From Violence and Abuse, the gap 024
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 29/06/2026📰Disinformation and misleading news stories are on the rise. Join our webinar to develop the tools you need to have productive conversations with the people in your life and to challenge the weaponisation of VAWG. 📆Tuesday 14 July ⏰1-2pm (online) Sign up here: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regi... 011
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 26/06/2026Our Joint statement in response to the House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee report on ‘Settlement, Citizenship and Integration’ that rejects the proposals to extend the standard qualifying period for settlement, but also ignores the abuse. ✊🏽 @lawrsuk.bsky.social @evawuk.bsky.social 022
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 22/06/2026During the 2022 World Cup, Sussex Police reported a significant rise in domestic abuse-related 999 calls. Behind every statistic is a woman living with fear, control or violence. If you are worried about yourself or someone else, support is available. #worldcup2026 #VAWG #domesticabuse #FIFA 032
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 19/06/2026📢 Southall Black Sisters is hiring! Passionate about justice and equality? Drive policy & campaigning for systemic change, apply now! ✨ Policy Advocacy Officer ✨Ascent Advocate ✨ NRPF IDVA ✨ Helpline Advisor 🗓 Apply by 5 July, 00:00 am southallblacksisters.org.uk/get-involved... 010
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 17/06/2026Refugee Week is a vital reminder of the resilience and strength it takes to seek safety and rebuild a life. Solidarity cannot begin and end with a single week. We must continue to defend the rights of refugees, including Black, minoritised and migrant women fleeing abuse, every day of the year. 0104
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 12/06/2026Our statement in light of the police findings published by @theguardian.com which reveals that one in 5 people arrested during the 2024 riots haven been reported for domestic abuse. @evawuk.bsky.social @lawrsuk.bsky.social @asylummatters.bsky.social @imkaanuk.bsky.social @4refugeewomen.bsky.social 030
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 09/06/2026Four years on, we remember Zara Aleena. Zara should have made it home safely. Instead, her life was stolen by a man’s violence and the state's multiple failures in stopping him. Join us in remembrance and solidarity.✊🏽 #LetsWalkZaraHome 📅 27/06/2026 🕓 1:30 PM 📍 Valentine’s Park, Ilford IG1 5UX 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 02/06/2026‘By and for’ services matter because we understand the realities Black, minoritised and migrant women face. Our staff’s own lived experiences mean we understand the need for, and value of, intersectional advocacy. Despite this, they remain underfunded. southallblacksisters.org.uk/news/why-by-... 010
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 01/06/2026Six months on from the Government’s VAWG Strategy, Black, minoritised and migrant women are still being left behind. While some progress has been made, critical gaps remain. All women deserve safety, regardless of their background. Read our analysis: southallblacksisters.org.uk/news/trackin....southallblacksisters.org.ukTracking the VAWG Strategy: Six Months On - Southall Black SistersSix months after the publication of the Government’s Freedom from Violence and Abuse: A Cross-Government Strategy to Build a Safer Society 011
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 29/05/2026Our Policy Manager recently joined the Lyca Xtra podcast to discuss how perpetrators weaponise migrant women’s insecure immigration status, how this is mirrored by state policies, and why urgent reforms are needed to equalise rights and protections for all women. 🎙️ youtu.be/WaBGPgomyRY?...youtu.beDomestic Violence I S1YouTube video by Lyca Radio Network 011
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 26/05/2026Our hearts and thoughts are with Lauris and Yolanda. We stand in solidarity with Lauris in her fight for justice and accountability for her mother, Yolanda. Women should not have to die before systems decide to listen.✊🏽 Read more here: www.theguardian.com/society/2026... 021
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 19/05/2026Migrant women must be granted equal rights & protections so they can escape abuse safely before it escalates further. Join calls for justice for Harshita and for all women, regardless of immigration status, to be able to access safety and support without fear. ✊🏾 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 19/05/2026Too many migrant women like Harshita experiencing abuse continue to face barriers to safety because of insecure immigration status & unequal access to support. Harshita’s death was preventable. 110
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 19/05/2026We stand in solidarity with Harshita Brella’s family as they continue their fight for justice following her killing, and renew calls for accountability for the domestic abuse and alleged dowry-related abuse she suffered; as well as the systemic failings surrounding her case. 121
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 13/05/2026Our statement on The King's speech today. ⬇️ 014
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 12/05/2026If you need advice about your abuse, you can contact our confidential helpline on 02085710800 to speak to an expert advisor. You can also get in touch with us by email at helpline@southallblacksisters.co.uk. Please note that we do not provide a 24-hour emergency service. In an emergency, dial 999. 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 08/05/2026Southall Black Sisters will be joining the Festival of Revolutions, for a session discussing our work to strengthen rights and protections for Black, minoritised and migrant women experiencing violence against women and girls. 🎟️ Tickets available on festivalofrevolutions.org 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 07/05/2026Booking Link: app.lineupnow.com/event/coleri...app.lineupnow.comLine-Up 000
Southall Black Sisters (SBS) @sbsisters.bsky.social · 07/05/2026Tayọ Aluko & Friends presents a special fundraising performance of Coleridge-Taylor of Freetown in support of SBS’s life-saving work with Black, minoritised, and migrant women, on 19 May at The Bread & Roses Theatre, Clapham. Use Code: 140618SBS for discount tickets at £15! Link in comment⬇️ 110
