My name is Joselia Pereira Do Nascimento (Josy), and I am reaching out with deep humility and hope. I never imagined I would find myself in this situation—recovering not only from the trauma of a violent attack but also fighting for justice in a legal system that often feels overwhelming and out of reach for people like me without money.

My case has been reported in the BBC and in other media.

While working as a live-in housekeeper for Sylivia Bourne, a wealthy West London art collector, in her family’s multi-million-pound home in West London, I was brutally stabbed by her son Maximilian Bourne. But what makes this even harder to bear is that it could have been prevented. I believe that Ms Bourne, my employer, failed in her duty to provide a safe working environment, leaving me vulnerable to unimaginable harm. I believe she must have known that her son was ill and as a result dangerous but she didn’t tell me so I could protect myself. This was nearly fatal and I am very lucky just to be alive. I am left with life changing injuries because of her decision to keep quiet about her son’s illness.

Following Maximillian’s trial, Ms Bourne offered me compensation, but despite her promises has not provided any support or care, and instead has instructed solicitors to defend her, who have not even replied to my solicitor’s letters asking for compensation.

On top of all this, I find myself homeless, destitute, without a job and living on the charity and goodwill of others.

I am now pursuing legal action against her – not just for myself, but to stand up for every domestic worker who deserves safety and dignity in their workplace. However, as you can imagine, legal battles are incredibly costly, and I cannot do this alone.

I am represented by Branch Austin McCormick LLP but I don’t have the money to pay them for what may turn out to be hard fought litigation through the Courts.

I am trying to raise an initial £1,500 so that I can obtain the medical reports I need to issue proceedings and then issue the court proceedings, and then my stretch target is £20,000 which should hopefully ensure I can see this case through to trial.

Your generous contribution will go directly towards covering the legal fees required to take this case forward. No amount is too small — every donation is a powerful statement of solidarity and support.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading my story, for caring, and for standing with me in my fight for justice. Together, we can make sure that what happened to me never happens to another person in silence.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Joselia Pereira Do Nascimento