A mother-of-four who survived years of domestic abuse has set up a support group to empower women living through similar circumstances.

Sharron Webb, 47, will launch The Women’s Decision Group next month, an organisation aimed at giving victims a safe space to share their experiences, build friendships and learn new skills.

Ms Webb, a former bin lady who suffered from depression and lupus in the past, recently starred in the Channel 5 show Rich House Poor House where she spoke about her challenges.

After being “overwhelmed” by the response she received from viewers, the part-time caterer of Bisterne Avenue, Walthamstow decided to use her understanding of psychological abuse to reach out to others.

“I never thought of myself as inspirational but I received so many responses from men and women after I was on the show and that sparked off my idea for the group,” she said.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

“To hear people say I have done a good job with my children is great.

“My past has taught me how to turn a negative situation into something positive.

“I’m not here to tell women what decision they should make with their relationship - I’m here to provide a place of warmth and help them gain self-confidence.

“When I was going through the abuse, having nobody to turn to was the absolute worst part for me. I would be at home crying and there would be nowhere for me to go.”

The group will meet three days a week for classes in self-defence, yoga and IT and will have a counsellor on hand to speak to victims and refer them to the appropriate authorities, if needed.

The official launch of the group will take place in Walthamstow on Monday, October 9.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Ms Webb said although she received help from the police when she was suffering at the hands of her abuser, she wants to “bridge the gap” in the system which can sometimes view victims as just a number.

She added: “I know the types of abuse women can suffer at the hands of a spouse like taking away their money and phone because I have been through it.

“I know there are many women in Waltham Forest being abused by their partners because I have met them.

“At the group, there will be no reason for them to be scared or shy because everyone is going through the same things.”

Anyone who wishes to attend or help out with the running of the group should email Ms Webb for the location and additional details on sharronwebb@outlook.com.