‘I called the police 169 times during my eight years of abuse hell’
- Katy Longhurst
- Jan 31, 2025
- 1 min read

Katy Longhurst, a survivor of eight years of domestic abuse, has turned her painful experiences into a powerful tool for others facing similar situations. In a recent Metro article, Katy shares her story of enduring 169 police calls over the years, struggling to escape a toxic, violent relationship. Despite the challenges, Katy's resilience led her to develop the Ask Joan app, a ground breaking solution designed to help victims of domestic abuse reach out for help discreetly and safely.
The app works by detecting unusual surges in household appliances ”such as kettles or toaster” that could signal moments of danger. When the app identifies such changes, it sends silent alerts to trusted contacts or authorities, ensuring the victim can get the support they need without their abuser knowing.
Katy's mission with the Ask Joan app is to provide a tool that empowers victims of domestic violence, offering them a discreet, effective way to signal for help when speaking out loud is not an option. Her story, as shared in the Metro article, is an inspiring reminder of the power of turning personal adversity into innovation that can change lives.
Through Ask Joan, Katy aims to create a safer future for those trapped in abusive relationships, helping them take control of their safety and reach out for assistance when they need it most.




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