Platform 51

what we do

Charlotte

Platform 51 has helped sixteen-year-old Charlotte find her voice and deal with her violent outbursts.

The main thing I’ve got out of coming here is confidence. Coming to Platform 51 has helped me find my voice really and given me all kinds of chances I wouldn’t have otherwise had.

A couple of years ago, I was having a really difficult time with my dad mainly. The thing was mum and dad wouldn’t speak to each other and they used me as a messenger. I was caught in the middle and I couldn’t cope with it. I’d be violent towards everyone. I’d hit, shout, bite, and I threw things. I’d do anything to get away from everyone and protect myself.

On this one day I went with my family to Neath Fair but I had a bit of a panic attack. I freaked out. I can’t explain why. Something went off in my head. I ran and ran and ran and ended up half way up a mountain with the police and my family after me. They had to wrestle me to the floor because I was attacking them. I was brought home handcuffed in the back of a police van. I’d been quite violent, kicking and lashing out.

I’ve come through it. I feel much calmer and more in control now. I’ve done my GCSEs and the Welsh Baccalaureate and if I get good results I plan to go to college to study a National Diploma in Leisure and Tourism.

The more I got involved with Platform 51, the more I grew, and I found my confidence. It’s taken a while but now I’m so proud of myself and what I’ve done.

I’d like to tell people that Platform 51 does change people’s lives and makes a big difference. It’s a safe place to go and we learn so much about who we are, how to cope and how the world works.

Find out how your support can help young women like Charlotte here.