Polly Harrar

Polly Harrar is the Founder and Chief Executive of The Sharan Project and has spent more than three decades supporting women affected by honour-based abuse, forced marriage and other harmful practices. A recognised expert witness, campaigner and advocate, she has played a significant role in influencing national legislation and policy, including reforms relating to forced marriage, virginity testing and hymenoplasty. Polly advises government departments, law enforcement agencies and safeguarding partnerships, and is widely recognised for her leadership within the violence against women and girls sector.

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Polly brings extensive experience of working alongside victims, communities and professionals to address forms of abuse that are often hidden by culture, stigma or fear. Her work helps organisations develop responses that are both culturally informed and victim centred, while strengthening prevention, protection and access to support. Through Indaba, she provides insight into how safeguarding systems can better identify, understand and respond to the realities faced by those at risk of harm.