Murdered woman's sister now helps victims of abuse

Emma King raises funds to send women on retreats with their families

The sister of a woman who was murdered by her husband has dedicated her life to supporting domestic violence victims.

Emma King has been nominated for the BBC Radio Wiltshire Make a Difference Awards after setting up Swindon Sisters Alliance, a community interest company that runs a charity shop and retreats for women escaping violence.

Mrs King was in her early 20s when her sister Julie's husband strangled her and cut her throat in 2005.

"I have so much love to give, and without my sister here, it is very hard for me to sit with that love and give it a purpose," Ms King said. "So I want to make sure Julie's memory lasts and her legacy continues – and helping others is the way to do it."

The charity shop raises funds to allow families to enjoy days out, as well as attend seven-day retreats at Julie's Haven – a holiday home Ms King started in memory of her sister.

It gives families an all-expenses-paid time away by the sea to help them process their trauma.

Ms King said she wanted women to be able to seek help and get support.

The charity offers a support package for each family and works with other organisations to identify what help they might need.

Keeping the shop going takes a huge amount of effort, time and money, Ms King said, but she said she was proud of her team and what they continue to achieve.

She has been nominated for the community award – one of eight categories at this year's Wiltshire Make a Difference Awards.

You can find out more about the BBC Make a Difference Awards where you live here.