From the age of 13 I worked as a sex worker mainly on the streets for 28 years.

 I felt deeply ashamed and kept this part of my life a secret, especially from my children and certain members of my family.

I started taking heroin at the age of 15 to medicate the emotional trauma I experienced in my childhood and adolescent years.

When I was 46 years old, I encountered the love of Jesus in a dream. His whole being emanated love, mercy, kindness and security. I fell before his feet weeping- actually I was howling having realised the choices I had made and how he saw it all. I asked him for forgiveness. I closed my eyes and embraced the love and sense of wholeness that came from Jesus that touched me.

In 2010 I was sent a form via email. It was the APPGAP government, who was asking me to write about my experience whilst working on the streets. I prayed about it and I sensed God’s approval. Within a year I visited the House of Parliament three times to give evidence in person. Lord Marow from Ireland was on the panel besides other MP’s that I have recognised. I felt terrified but answered their questions to the best of my ability. This resulted in the changing of laws, especially regarding trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation. I hadn’t realised that from the age of 13 I had been trafficked.

It is important to have a voice, so you don’t feel alone and isolated and locked in shame.

A voice in the hands of the Almighty God can open doors for others who feel that they don’t have a voice. Speak up!