Mary* is a mother of 2 young children who recently left an abusive relationship.
Mary’s partner was violent towards her and their children.
Mary had attempted to leave the relationship with her children several times, but her partner was able to locate them and she returned to the relationship.
Child protection became involved and support was provided by family violence support workers.
After several court appearances for family violence related offences, Mary’s partner was jailed.
Mary does not want to reconcile with her partner and both Mary and her children remain fearful of his release from jail.
Mary has multiple health issues caused by the abuse.
These health needs require constant monitoring by her GP.
The children require ongoing counselling to work through the trauma of the abuse.
Mary and her children were referred to a Uniting Integrated Family Services (IFS).
Our case manager has been working with the family for several months.
Mary and her children repeatedly talk about their need for safety and security.
Mary has experienced long term financial instability and we have helped her access welfare payments.
She now manages her weekly payments to ensure she covers basic needs.
Our team worked with Mary to secure a Family Violence Flexible Support Package, which has helped her get a private rental and purchase security doors and locks for the windows.
This also helped cover removalist costs, the bond and the first month’s rent.
The family also received financial support for the children’s education, including school uniforms and an ipad.
Mary is also working towards a qualification, so she can find stable employment.
Having settled into their new home, Mary and her children are continuing to work through the ongoing impact of the violence they endured.
*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.
