Beth* was referred by Early Help for support in leaving her partner, who was highly controlling and posed a risk to their children. She was referred to Manchester Housing Solutions, where she received support with exploring housing options and communicating with her housing officer. We also supported her to explore refuge options with Independent Choices. 

Some of the support Beth received was provided in response to significant safeguarding concerns, including engagement with CSC and the development of a safety plan for any escalation of risk. Beth was referred to HFAW for help completing her DLA application and guidance on separating her joint UC claim as she prepared to leave her partner. In addition to financial and housing support, we encouraged Beth to seek mental health support, we were happy she began to engage in therapy. 

Her children were offered emotional support with Assist. A significant amount of time was spent helping her develop a greater understanding of domestic abuse, as she often expressed self-blame and minimised the risks her partner posed to her and her daughters. These beliefs created barriers to her leaving the relationship. Topics explored included power and control, honour-based violence (HBV), the cycle and impact of abuse, and establishing healthy boundaries. 

With support, Beth safely left her partner and moved with her children to a refuge. She shared that the domestic abuse work she had engaged in was vital in helping her better understand her situation. Now that she has left, she and her children are very happy and finally beginning to heal from the trauma they experienced.