Leave site

In Memory

Yvonne Bradbury

In the 1980’s Yvonne Bradbury joined us as the Centre Manager, where she helped people from all walks of life in their time of greatest need. She is credited with making the Centre what it is today, providing outreach, accommodation and counselling.

The Centre provides drop in and outreach facilities for all, as well as residential accommodation for women and children who have experienced domestic abuse.

John Barlow, one of our trustee’s said: “Yvonne’s contribution to the organisation was immeasurable. She was dedicated to helping the thousands of people who were supported by us during her leadership, and her passion for helping others and her drive to get things done inspired clients and staff alike.”

Under her leadership, she expanded the services available to those in need in Test Valley, including the acquisition of larger refuge premises and move-on properties; Counselling services; Outreach to support people within the community; the delivery of therapeutic programmes to help clients on their journey; and educational work in schools and colleges regarding healthy relationships.

Memorial Plaque

In 2021 two of Yvonne’s long-serving colleagues – Elaine Oates and Fe Kay – assisted with the unveiling of a memorial plaque in honor of Yvonne. Between the three of them, they have more than 70 years of service with the Centre.

The plaque was designed by Joanna Dewfall, a local professional mosaic artist who works with communities and schools to create legacy artworks (dewfallmosaic.co.uk) but Yvonne’s family were also involved in the design of the plaque, with colleagues and refuge residents coming together in a workshop run by Joanna, to build the mosaic.

In testament to Yvonne, the organisation has continued to grow and recently re-branded to Finding Freedom of Abuse. Yvonne will be sorely missed but her legacy will live on within Finding Freedom.

Forever in our thoughts.