Family violence is one of the leading causes of poverty among women across Australia.
With a surge in family violence cases since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an increase in demand for services to support families.
Kerry* is a single mother who has experienced family violence.
As the abuse escalated, Kerry took out an order of protection and fled to safety with her child.
“It was terrifying,” says Kerry.
“We left with the clothes on our back. I had no idea how we were going to survive.”
Left with significant debt, our team were able to provide Kerry with support when she needed it most.
The team walked Kerry through the different aspects relating to her and her child’s safety.
She was referred to a financial counsellor who provided information and advice regarding her debts, income and budgeting.
Our team helped Kerry access the basics like food and toiletries.
Kerry has now found somewhere to live and is working towards setting up a secure future for herself and her child.
“I don’t think I would have been able to do this without the help of Uniting,” says Kerry.
“It’s great to have financial support for rent and I have been able to save money to buy a second-hand washing machine and lounge set.”
*This is a true story about a real person. Some details such as names have been changed to respect the wishes of the person featured. The photo accompanying this story is for illustrative purposes only. It is not a photo of the person featured in this story.
