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thefirststepknowsley

The First Step to Freedom from Domestic Abuse

The First Step is Knowsley's only service providing specialist support to thousands of local residents who are experiencing domestic abuse 🧡

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Today we are proud to launch Behind Closed Doors, a powerful new short film created to raise awareness of coercive control and domestic abuse.
Abuse doesn’t always leave visible marks.

Coercive control isolates, intimidates and slowly erodes a person’s freedom, confidence and sense of self, and it is a crime.

With Knowsley identified as having the highest rate of femicide in the UK in 2023, recognising the signs of abuse early can save lives. This film was created for survivors, families, friends and professionals, to help people understand what coercive control looks like and to show that there is a way out.

The First Step is Knowsley’s only specialist, independent domestic abuse service. Established in 1996, we support over 1,500 people every year with trauma-informed, survivor-led support, from immediate crisis through to long-term recovery.

We are honoured to have created this film in partnership with @media_trust, @newland.tv, & @unwomenuk alongside an incredible cast and crew who brought this vision to life.

Behind Closed Doors reflects our commitment to amplifying survivor voices and shining a light on the realities of abuse that too often remain hidden.
If you feel trapped or silenced, you are not alone.

With The First Step, there is hope.

📞 0151 548 3333


166
5
2 months ago


(TW. Coercive Control & Domestic Abuse)
Abuse doesn’t have to be physical.
Coercive control isolates, intimidates, and steals freedom and it is a crime.

With Knowsley having the highest femicide rate in the UK in 2023, recognising the signs early can save lives. This film is for survivors, families, friends, and professionals because there is a way out.

If you feel trapped or silenced, you are not alone.
With The First Step, there is hope.

Call us on 0151 548 3333

-—————

The First Step is Knowsley’s only specialist, independent domestic abuse service. Established in 1996, we support over 1,500 people every year with trauma-informed, survivor-led support from immediate crisis through to long-term recovery.

At the heart of our Christmas awareness campaign is coercive and controlling behaviour. This powerful short film shines a light on one of the most insidious and misunderstood forms of domestic abuse. Abuse doesn’t have to be physical. Coercive control isolates, intimidates, and systematically erodes confidence, freedom, and a person’s sense of self — and it is a crime.

With Knowsley identified as having the highest rate of femicide in the UK in 2023, early recognition and intervention is critical. This film is for everyone, survivors, friends, families, and professionals to help recognise the signs, seek help sooner, and understand that there is a way out.

We are honoured to have created this film in partnership with Media Trust, @newland.tv and @unwomenuk, alongside an incredible and dedicated cast and crew who brought this vision to life.

This short offers a glimpse into our work of listening to and elevating survivor voices. In 2026, Behind Closed Doors will sensitively bring lived experiences of abuse in Knowsley to the screen, with the hope of helping others recognise what they may be experiencing, seek support, and know they are not alone.

Behind Closed Doors coming 2026.

@libbyburkewilde @merseysidepcc
@knowsleycouncil @merseysidepolice @phholtfoundation @jessphillipsmp @yassica.11.11x @girlsonthegolpool @ladies_that @sldaservices @liverpooldomesticabuseservice @alisonmccormacksolicitors @femicidecensus @womens_aid @killedwomennw


84
4
5 months ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago

In 2023, Merseyside held the title of the worst region for femicide in the UK.

Domestic abuse-related killings accounted for 85% of all femicides, however, domestic abuse is NOT currently included in Merseyside’s Serious Violence Duty Strategy.

Serious systemic failures were identified in 100% of cases where the victim and perpetrator were known to the authorities.

Merseyside’s matricide rate exceeds the national average by over 100%. The majority of perpetrators showed severe mental health issues, often exacerbated by a lack of adequate care.

This report shows a systemic failure in services that could have protected vulnerable women before it was too late.

It also shows that the most dangerous place for a woman is her home.

Local domestic abuse services are crucial to ensuring women at risk have a way out - but more must be done.

🔗 Link to the full report in bio.

@thefirststepknowsley
@liverpooldomesticabuseservice
@sldaservices
#MerseysideFemicide
#FemicideCensus
#VAWG
#DomesticAbuse
#IntimatePartnerViolence
#AbuseAwareness


3.5K
70
1 years ago


Proud to see our Head of Services and Community Manager attending tonight’s @thelfcfoundation Gala Ball at the iconic Liverpool Anglican Cathedral ❤️⚽

An incredible evening celebrating community, compassion and the power of football to make a real difference — raising vital funds to tackle social inequality through health, learning and employability programmes across the Liverpool City Region and beyond.

Amazing to see so many people coming together to support such important work 👏

#LFCFoundation #LiverpoolFC #Community #MakingADifference #thefirststep


54
1 weeks ago

As part of National Stalking Awareness Week 2026, we’re proud to highlight that our team includes fully trained ISACs (Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers).

Stalking is a high-risk crime that can escalate quickly, and having specialist support in place is vital. Our trained ISACs work directly with victims to understand risk, provide tailored support, and help improve safety and outcomes.

This year’s theme, Fatal Fixation, shines a light on the link between stalking and serious harm, and reinforces the importance of early intervention and specialist knowledge.

We remain committed to ensuring those experiencing stalking receive the expert support they need.

Follow @paladin_nsas for more expert advice around stalking 🩵

#NSAW2026 #FatalFixation #StalkingAwareness #ISAC YouAreNotAlon


24
1 months ago

As part of National Stalking Awareness Week 2026, we’re proud to highlight that our team includes fully trained ISACs (Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers).

Stalking is a high-risk crime that can escalate quickly, and having specialist support in place is vital. Our trained ISACs work directly with victims to understand risk, provide tailored support, and help improve safety and outcomes.

This year’s theme, Fatal Fixation, shines a light on the link between stalking and serious harm, and reinforces the importance of early intervention and specialist knowledge.

We remain committed to ensuring those experiencing stalking receive the expert support they need.

Follow @paladin_nsas for more expert advice around stalking 🩵

#NSAW2026 #FatalFixation #StalkingAwareness #ISAC YouAreNotAlon


24
1 months ago

As part of National Stalking Awareness Week 2026, we’re proud to highlight that our team includes fully trained ISACs (Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers).

Stalking is a high-risk crime that can escalate quickly, and having specialist support in place is vital. Our trained ISACs work directly with victims to understand risk, provide tailored support, and help improve safety and outcomes.

This year’s theme, Fatal Fixation, shines a light on the link between stalking and serious harm, and reinforces the importance of early intervention and specialist knowledge.

We remain committed to ensuring those experiencing stalking receive the expert support they need.

Follow @paladin_nsas for more expert advice around stalking 🩵

#NSAW2026 #FatalFixation #StalkingAwareness #ISAC YouAreNotAlon


24
1 months ago

As part of National Stalking Awareness Week 2026, we’re proud to highlight that our team includes fully trained ISACs (Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers).

Stalking is a high-risk crime that can escalate quickly, and having specialist support in place is vital. Our trained ISACs work directly with victims to understand risk, provide tailored support, and help improve safety and outcomes.

This year’s theme, Fatal Fixation, shines a light on the link between stalking and serious harm, and reinforces the importance of early intervention and specialist knowledge.

We remain committed to ensuring those experiencing stalking receive the expert support they need.

Follow @paladin_nsas for more expert advice around stalking 🩵

#NSAW2026 #FatalFixation #StalkingAwareness #ISAC YouAreNotAlon


24
1 months ago

@scratchstudioliverpool12 Love being in the studio getting ready for the single launch

Tickets available at the amazing @primallive or dm for link SATURDAY 30th MAY HOTSHOTS BALTIC MARKET

@thefirststepknowsley
@nickyopolli
@enyalouisewelsh
@sophiemac
@georgialivesinger
@ninacondron


45
10
1 months ago

Look at this line up 🥰🥰🥰🥰

I am so honoured and fee very lucky to have these girls with me on the night “let’s have it “

@primallive presents, an incredible night and woman empowerment supporting The First Step supporting domestic abuse. WE HAVE …

@georgialivesinger
@sophiemac
@nicky.music43
@ninacondron
@enyalouisewelsh

What a line up

SATURDAY 30th MAY get your tickets now

With thanks to @scratchstudioliverpooll12


37
9
1 months ago


🐣 Easter Bank Holiday Closure Notice 🐣

We will be closed over the Easter Bank Holiday.

In the meantime, if you need support, please contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. @refugecharity

We will resume our normal working hours (9am–5pm) on Tuesday 7th April and respond to all enquiries as soon as possible.

Wishing you a safe and peaceful Easter 💛

- TFS x


7
1 months ago

This is a hard watch from our friends at @thefirststepknowsley but it could literally help thousands of women escape from domestic abuse, financial control, coercive behaviour, sexual abuse and violence.

Please watch and share so that we can all reach more survivors who may feel they have nowhere to turn.

If you are in South Liverpool, you can call us on 0151 494 1777 and we will support you. Always call 999 in an emergency.


15
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago


Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

Tea & biscuits, painting, and time to catch up ☕🎨

Our coffee mornings are a warm, safe, and welcoming space for survivors 🤍

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you — give us a call 📞 0151 548 3333 - option 1 💜


29
2 months ago

“Some forms of abuse don’t leave visible bruises. Coercive control thrives in silence and in the UK it has reached epidemic levels… If this film helps even one person recognise the signs and take the first step towards safety, then it matters.”
Libby Burke Wilde, Director

‘Behind Closed Doors’ shines a light on coercive control, including the maternal victims so often left out of the conversation.

The First Step is an independent domestic abuse service in Knowsley, UK. If you see the warning signs in your own life or someone else’s, don’t stay silent. Reach out if it is safe to do so.

Production Company: @newland.tv
Director: @libbyburkewilde
MD/EP: @trinepillay
EP: @stephanie_e_walton
Producer: @mollysingerr
Director of Photography: @thomas_tyson_hole

Client: @thefirststepknowsley
Community Domestic Abuse Manager, The First Step: Jenny Dennett

Agency: Media Trust
Media Trust, EP: @michaelalowefilm

Jo: @sachalparkinson
Sam: @joeygillx
Paula: @ninasrandomramblings
Neighbour: @mintcastingagency

Creative: @alex_kosterman_unofficial
Casting Director: @emmagarrettcasting
Casting Assistant: @emmagarrettcasting
Location Manager: @lastminutelocations.tv
1st Assistant Director: Davy Hughes
3rd Assistant Director: Keri Mooney
Runner: @gsoenshughes
Intimacy Coordinator: @rhealittle.ic
Wellbeing Facilitator: @cherylwoodcocktherapy

1st AC: @sean__lomax
2nd AC: @beanie_baker25
Grip: gorgeous.bull
Grip Assistant: @martharyles
DIT: @nathanmorgan93 & @pixelbridge_ltd
Sound Recordist: @ellisaudio
Gaffer: @alanmillar_gaffer
Electrician: @antonioc33 & @aracelilopes_

Make Up Artist: @terrigrisdale
Make Up Assistant: @supernovarepresents & @supernovarepresents
Stylist: @mollymuzsla
Art Director: @livwalters_design
Medic: @medic.massage.uk

Editor: @eoliveredit
Assistant Editor: Reuben Williams
Edit Company: @tenthree_editing
Online Edit Studio: @okaystudio
Sound Design: @marcoblarzinodigital
Animation: @jackbrownlivock
Grade: @jaxharney
Composer: @creasullivan
DCP: @thefarmpost.tv

With thanks to: @panavisionofficial @nofilterlighting @copythat.tv @outsidemadecatering


3
17
2 months ago

Today marks 30 years of The First Step supporting survivors in our community.

Our CEO, Caroline Grant, reflects on this milestone:

“I became the next woman to lead The First Step in 2022, proudly following in the footsteps of our founder, Angela Cholet. Taking on this role was both an honour and a responsibility that I hold deeply.

I joined The First Step with many years of experience supporting survivors of abuse, but also with a strong understanding of the needs of Knowsley as a woman born and bred here. The challenges within this area of work are clear, but in Knowsley, the barriers can be unique, and change is not always easy.

For 30 years, a team of incredible local women has worked tirelessly to change lives across generations. They have given a voice to the voiceless, elevated and supported thousands, and have always carried out their work with integrity and with the best interests of those we support at heart. I cannot fully express how proud I am of what has been achieved.

As we celebrate this milestone, I look forward to the next 30 years and welcome the opportunities and challenges ahead as we continue our mission to support those who need us most in the Knowsley community.”

For three decades, The First Step has stood alongside survivors.
And this is only the beginning. 💜

#TheFirstStep #30YearsOfImpact #Knowsley #EndDomesticAbuse


26
2 months ago


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The Instagram Story Viewer is an easy tool that lets you secretly watch and save Instagram stories, videos, photos, or IGTV. With this service, you can download content and enjoy it offline whenever you like. If you find something interesting on Instagram that you’d like to check out later or want to view stories while staying anonymous, our Viewer is perfect for you. Anonstories offers an excellent solution for keeping your identity hidden. Instagram first launched the Stories feature in August 2023, which was quickly adopted by other platforms due to its engaging, time-sensitive format. Stories let users share quick updates, whether photos, videos, or selfies, enhanced with text, emojis, or filters, and are visible for only 24 hours. This limited time frame creates high engagement compared to regular posts. In today’s world, Stories are one of the most popular ways to connect and communicate on social media. However, when you view a Story, the creator can see your name in their viewer list, which may be a privacy concern. What if you wish to browse Stories without being noticed? Here’s where Anonstories becomes useful. It allows you to watch public Instagram content without revealing your identity. Simply enter the username of the profile you’re curious about, and the tool will display their latest Stories. Features of Anonstories Viewer: - Anonymous Browsing: Watch Stories without showing up on the viewer list. - No Account Needed: View public content without signing up for an Instagram account. - Content Download: Save any Stories content directly to your device for offline use. - View Highlights: Access Instagram Highlights, even beyond the 24-hour window. - Repost Monitoring: Track the reposts or engagement levels on Stories for personal profiles. Limitations: - This tool works only with public accounts; private accounts remain inaccessible. Benefits: - Privacy-Friendly: Watch any Instagram content without being noticed. - Simple and Easy: No app installation or registration required. - Exclusive Tools: Download and manage content in ways Instagram doesn’t offer.

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