Unbreakable Self-Defence

Can self-defence be part of healing after abuse?

This week, I was inspired by a BBC article about Counter Force, a self-defence organisation in Wales offering supportive sessions for survivors of abuse.

What really stood out was their focus on creating a safe, supportive space where humour, laughter and community can all play an important role in healing. That sense of peer-to-peer connection is a key part of trauma-informed practice, helping participants feel understood, supported and less alone.

Their work highlights something I feel passionate about: self-defence can be about much more than physical skills — it can help build confidence, connection and recovery from trauma.

'Self-defence classes saved me after being abused' A self-defence class is helping those who have experienced abuse regain their confidence.

Just a friendly reminder — there’s only one day left to book a place on our Empowerment Self-Defence for Girls workshop at the discounted early bird price of just £10. We’d love to see you there, so don’t miss your chance to join us!

I'm excited and privileged to be running a self-defence session at local fundraising event organised by raising money for the charities and

Sat 5th September - put the date in your diary ladies! x

After hearing from local parents — and feeling the same worries myself as my Year 6 daughter gets ready to start secondary school in September — I’ve created a friendly empowerment and self-defence workshop for girls aged 11–12.

The session is age-appropriate and supportive, introducing self-defence in a sensitive, empowering way. Girls will learn practical tools to recognise risk, set boundaries and respond with more confidence.

📅 Saturday 5th September from 9am–11.30am
📍 St Anne’s Community Hall, Letchworth Road, LE3 6FN

More details and booking here: https://www.unbreakableselfdefence.com/empowerment-self-defence-for-girls

I’m never especially comfortable promoting myself, but I know that booking onto a self-defence course can feel like a bit of a leap of faith.

You might be wondering: Will it be right for me? Will I feel comfortable? Can I really learn useful skills in a short space of time?

That’s why I’m so grateful for the kind 5-star reviews people have taken the time to leave for Unbreakable Self-Defence. I hope they offer reassurance that the courses are practical, evidence-based and accessible - without feeling overwhelming or intimidating.

My aim is always to teach self-defence in a way that feels empowering, not fear-based. It’s not just about physical techniques; it’s also about confidence, boundaries, recognising red flags, understanding body language and learning simple ways to create a safer opportunity to get away if needed.

If you’re thinking about joining a course but aren’t sure where to start, please feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and help you find the best fit.

Not every warning sign looks obvious at first.

That’s why I’m looking to run a summer self-defence workshop for girls moving from one school phase to the next. It’s planned to be a fun, supportive and age-appropriate space where girls can ask questions and learn practical skills that I wish I’d had growing up!

This isn’t just about physical safety. It’s about helping girls spot early warning signs in relationships, assert their boundaries, build confidence and feel better equipped to stay safe.

Because behaviour that first seems caring or affectionate can sometimes become controlling, pressurising or unhealthy — and young people deserve the tools to recognise that.

If this could be useful for your daughter, or a young person you support, please register your interest by completing this short form:

https://forms.gle/LZJL8jvqb4R7CYr99.

There’s no commitment at this stage — it just helps me understand whether there’s enough interest to plan the workshop and share more details.

Please feel free to share with anyone who might find this helpful.

Working with young girls from vulnerable backgrounds can be both challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Many of the young people we support have learned to put up a tough front, especially around adults they don’t yet trust. That can make delivering empowerment self-defence workshops more complex, but it also makes moments of connection even more meaningful.

Our after-school youth club sessions brought real challenges: sporadic attendance, young people who understandably wanted space to relax, and the need to adapt activities for different ages while still teaching essential skills in awareness, boundaries and personal safety.

That’s why it was so lovely to get this feedback the staff at Safe and Sound, a Derbyshire charity that provides practical and emotional support for children at risk of exploitation.

Every session is a chance to build trust, confidence and resilience — one conversation, one activity and one breakthrough at a time.

Spaces are still available on our FREE self-defence course for girls and young women aged 14+!

Delivered by ZamZam Unlimited Possibilities, these empowering sessions take place every Monday, 5–6pm, at Barley Croft Community Centre, Leicester, running right through to the end of the summer term.

This is more than just a self-defence class — it’s a chance to build confidence, learn practical skills, and feel stronger in yourself.

Participants will learn how to:
✨ Spot red flags
✨ Set strong boundaries
✨ Use effective striking + escape techniques
✨ Build confidence and stay safer

If you’d like to register, please contact:
📧 [email protected]
📧 [email protected]