Elizabeth bounces back after years of domestic abuse.

Elizabeth bounces back

The CASS+ number was Elizabeth’s lifeline as she left her local police station. When the Police Officer offered to call us, she knew that this was something she needed to do herself.

Our Coordinator encouraged her with regular phone calls and organised a face-to-face to support her from being very scared to take control. After years of domestic abuse and going in and out of court, Elizabeth* was finally able to find the inner strength to take action, for her own sake and for the sake of her child.

Life-changing moment

Elizabeth knew she needed help. As a result, she took control and gave us a call.

We were confident that with the right support, she would be able to get through this complex situation.

After years of isolation and terror, she finally had the support network she so badly needed. Our team worked with the local Splitz Worker, McKenzie Friends and the Cafcass Manager to get her through court, ensuring she and her child were safe to rebuild their lives together.

 

Elizabeth explains how she bounced back

I would have given up if it hadn’t been for CASS+ and Splitz at court. I feel so different now. Just having Henri waiting for me outside the court meant everything. I was so afraid that he would be waiting in the shadows to cause trouble. I was so thankful that Henri could explain what was going on. This was a watershed moment. I was finally listened to.

 

Free of coercive control

For the moment, the courts have set Elizabeth free to rebuild her life. Her child is doing well at school and she has a new part time job, with plenty of time to devote to family and friends. She’s finding so much joy in the simple things, watching the creative side of her child flourish in the right environment. As a result, they spend quality time together, playing with slime, and games of Uno and Monopoly. These have become treasured pass times, alongside visits to the local park and Dodge Ball on the trampoline.

 

All because the Police signposted to CASS+ and Splitz

If CASS+ hadn’t been there, I’d still be walking around with an alarm, watching out for cars, in tears whilst my child was asleep, looking out of my window, afraid of the phone and worrying about my child’s safety. I’m so thankful for Devon and Cornwall Police making this vital link with CASS+. It makes a huge difference knowing that there’s ongoing support and people who can help me. Things could have gone too far. Without CASS+, I could have given in and I don’t even know if my son would be alive and well.

I could not have faced court alone. I want to get the word out about the way CASS+ can accompany you through court.’

If you need help through court in Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Bodmin or Truro, get in touch with us.

 

*Name has been changed to protect identity