NOW that the X Factor has finished, singer Jahmene Douglas’s mum is hoping she can use the platform to change domestic violence laws.

Mandy Thomas, 47, has been working for domestic abuse charity Women’s Aid after suffering at the hands of her partner who was sent to prison for domestic violence.

In one horrific assault, Mandy was sliced with knives and burned her with a blow torch, leaving her almost unrecognisable.

Since this year’s X Factor, which lead to Mandy’s story coming out in the national press, she and Jahmene have raised thousands of pounds for Women’s Aid, and last week Asda – where Jahmene used to work in Swindon – donated £10,000 to the charity on their behalf.

Mandy said: “I have been working on the quiet in the background for many years for Women’s Aid and have websites set up for donations.

“We have helped so many already.

“Since Jahmene has been in the X Factor, after our story got leaked, we have raised nearly £18,000 for Women’s Aid.

“I was asked to attend the Women’s Empowerment Awards which for me was the most moving event.

“Meeting singer Alesha Dixon was a moment of wonder. I wanted to record her laugh on my phone and use it when I feel down, her laugh is contagious bless her.

“There were so many beautiful people there, including Will Young, who I adore.”

Mandy is now aiming to use the smash-hit television show’s platform to put pressure on the Government to change sentencing laws for domestic violence and provide more funding to help victims.

She said: “The reason I survived, I want the laws changed on sentencing.

“I spoke out on Channel 4 news about the cuts and what happens because women’s refuges are closing and their funds are being cut.

“For example, SPLITZ in Swindon for me was a lifeline that now no longer exists, because the Government decided it wasn’t needed.

“SPLITZ help people mentally and physically get through such ordeals, they steer you to the right places and people.

“Without organisations like SPLITZ, it’s guaranteed that lives will be lost.

“If not because people will stay with dangerous perpetrators because they will feel there’s no way out.”

Mandy is incredibly proud of her her son has coped with the ordeal of domestic violence to become a singing success on X Factor.

“Jahmene has shown that you can get through the hardest pains and survive and make something of your life,” she said.

“This is a loud clear message to all those out there losing faith and hope and giving up, please watch Jahmene, listen and be lifted.”

For more information about Mandy’s work visit www.everyclick.com/mandy-thomas/info and Mandy’s blog www.womeninfear.blogspot.com