Empowering Women: From Domestic Abuse to Financial Independence

In this episode of the Healed Approach podcast, Rebecca interviews Cheryl Sharp, the founder and CEO of Pink Pig Financial - https://pinkpigfinancials.co.uk/. Cheryl is also a mentor to aspiring business owners and women impacted by domestic abuse. They discuss Cheryl's personal experience with domestic abuse and how it influenced her journey to becoming financially independent. Cheryl shares that her abusive relationship started gradually, with emotional and coercive control. She explains that she didn't realise the severity of the abuse because it wasn't physical. Cheryl felt trapped in the relationship due to having children together and a lack of self-confidence. After several years, Cheryl took advantage of an opportunity when her partner moved out temporarily. She sought legal help to navigate divorce proceedings but initially downplayed the extent of the abuse. It wasn't until he tried to come back that she opened up about everything. The divorce process was challenging as her ex ignored all paperwork, requiring additional legal steps to finalise it. Despite being physically separated, they still had ongoing issues related to their children and co-parenting agreements. Cheryl eventually met her current husband who supported her through dealing with ongoing contact from her ex-partner. She credits him for helping shield her from further harassment. Two years ago, a public incident prompted Cheryl's decision to involve the police which led to obtaining a non-molestation order against him. This allowed their youngest child to sever ties with him completely. Since then, they have not had any contact except for some communication through solicitors at times. The absence of contact has helped Cheryl regain control over her life both personally and professionally. Cheryl started working on herself after leaving the abusive relationship which led to starting Pink Pig Financial—a business that helps SMEs manage their finances—and mentoring others in similar situations while empowering them towards financial independence. Rebecca shares how she also struggled with emotional abuse during her own marriage and how important it is for both women and businesses to address these issues openly instead of shying away from them due social conditioning or fear of repercussions.