LEFT WRITE HOOK LTD

LEFT WRITE HOOK LTD is an Australian charity dedicated to supporting adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and gendered violence through a unique, research-informed program that combines creative writing and trauma-informed non-contact boxing. Founded by Dr Donna Lyon, a survivor, academic, and advocate, the organisation emerged from a grassroots initiative and has grown into a nationally recognised movement, empowering participants to reclaim their bodies, voices, and stories in a safe, peer-led environment.

Mission and Vision

The mission of LEFT WRITE HOOK LTD is to transform trauma through writing, boxing, and peer-led community. The charity envisions a future where every survivor of childhood sexual abuse and gendered violence has the right and opportunity to thrive. Central to this vision is the belief that healing is not only possible but can be catalysed through innovative, body-based, and creative approaches led by those with lived experience.

Main Objectives

• Provide a safe, inclusive, and trauma-informed space for survivors to process and express their experiences.
• Empower participants to regain agency, confidence, and resilience through physical and creative expression.
• Build a supportive peer community that fosters connection, understanding, and shared healing.
• Upskill and employ survivors with lived experience as facilitators, ensuring programs are delivered by those who truly understand the journey.
• Advance the evidence base for trauma recovery through ongoing research partnerships, including a randomised control trial with the University of Melbourne.

Benefiting Groups

LEFT WRITE HOOK LTD primarily serves female-identifying and gender diverse adults aged 18 and over who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or gendered violence. The charity recognises that trauma affects people of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities, and strives to create programs that are culturally responsive and accessible. While the focus is on adult survivors, the organisation acknowledges the diverse manifestations of trauma and welcomes participants with a range of experiences.

Services and Activities

• Flagship 8-week program: A structured workshop combining weekly creative writing sessions with trauma-informed non-contact boxing, delivered in private, safe environments by trained facilitators with lived experience.
• Facilitator training: Comprehensive training for survivors to become peer leaders, enabling the program to grow and reach more communities.
• Research and evaluation: Collaboration with academic institutions to measure the impact of the program on mental health, PTSD symptoms, and overall wellbeing.
• Community events and screenings: Hosting and supporting screenings of the multi-award-winning Left Write Hook documentary to raise awareness and break the silence around childhood sexual abuse.
• Online resources and social impact campaigns: Providing additional support through publications, online communities, and advocacy initiatives.
• Fundraising and partnerships: Engaging the community through donations, fundraising events, and partnerships to expand access to programs for the hundreds of survivors on the waitlist.

LEFT WRITE HOOK LTD stands out for its commitment to peer leadership, evidence-based practice, and holistic healing. By integrating physical movement with creative expression, the charity offers survivors a powerful pathway to recovery, connection, and empowerment, helping them to not only heal but to lead and inspire others in their communities.