Raising awareness of domestic abuse
Amanda Baxter and a client talk through a domestic abuse case.
'He threatened to kill Holly’s pet, then he turned on her’
Mum of domestic abuse victim Holly Bramley is leading a campaign for a national register of people who harm animals
Lincolnshire mum Annette Bramley is working to raise awareness of domestic abuse after the tragic loss of her daughter Holly.
Holly was murdered by her husband Nicholas Metson in March 2023, following years of controlling and abusive behaviour.
Annette, who lives in Holbeach, believes that his threats to kill Holly’s beloved pet was a ‘red flag’ for his future actions.
In an attempt to save lives in the future, she is leading a campaign to establish ‘Holly’s Law’ - a nationwide animal cruelty registry that lists individuals known to harm or kill animals.
“According to the RSPCA, many domestic abuse victims say that their pets are also injured or killed as a means of controlling or punishing,” explained Annette.
“This man had a history of violence towards animals and former partners. He threatened to kill my daughter’s pet in an attempt to control her. He eventually escalated his actions to take Holly’s life.”
The campaign for Holly’s Law has already received more than 53,000 signatures and her local MP has supported the cause by writing a letter of support to the Prime Minister. But Annette hasn’t stopped there: “I have also written a letter to Queen Camilla who is patron for ‘Save Lives’ a UK-based charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse.”
“I have been blown away by the response so far. If we can raise awareness of this problem and the help and support that is available, then we will have done something worthwhile.
“People should be aware of the link between this type of behaviour and domestic abuse.”
Together we can end domestic abuse
Jane Dhanji, (Boxes of Hope) Charlotte Goodwin (Ringrose) Anne Canter (LDASS) Annette Bramley and Boxes of Hope managing director Amanda Baxter.
A hard-working and dedicated group of experts is helping people from Lincolnshire to recognise and escape domestic abuse.
At Boxes of Hope in Holbeach, a specially trained team are supporting those who are seeking an end to their abusive relationship.
The council commission EDAN Lincs (End Domestic Abuse Now) to deliver specialist support and assistance to individuals and families in Lincolnshire through LDASS (Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service).
As well as educating community groups and services, the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, part of Lincolnshire County Council, has developed business engagement packages to help support employees across the county, for more information visit: www.domesticabuselincolnshire.com.
“This issue has become more prevalent because victims now have more information about it,” explained EDAN senior manager Ann Canter. “We can help anyone to escape this sort of situation. We have venues across Lincolnshire and we work with crisis teams, legal services, financial partners, accommodation services, police and Citizens Advice.
Ann added: “Domestic abuse does not have to mean physical violence. Coercive and controlling behaviour can be equally harmful to victims and to children who witness it.”
Find out more about what domestic abuse support is available to you.
