From homelessness to hope

This is Amber’s story from homelessness to hope. She wants to share this journey to give hope to those going through family court without legal aid or a solicitor.

Homeless at Christmas

Two years ago, Amber* and her pre-school son were thrown out of their family home by her ex. Suddenly homeless just days before Christmas, she felt vulnerable and utterly alone. On top of this, she now faced temporary accommodation costs. As a result, she has struggled to make ends meet ever since.

From crisis to comfort

Within a couple of months, Amber was fortunate to find a secure home. With many of her personal possessions withheld by her ex, she was starting over. Supported by a local charity, Turntable, Amber was able to get some white goods. However, her incomings were not meeting her outgoings and the new accommodation costs had set her back financially.

Things took a sharp turn

Life took a sharp turn when Amber was accused of child abuse and her ex took her to court. Despite her take-home salary of just £21k, she was unable to access legal aid. Now forced to represent herself, Amber faced the unknown.

CASS+ leaflet

Amber picks up:

‘I panicked when the court papers arrived. It was such a shock because I’ve only ever wanted to be a good mother. I had never felt so alone and broken.

Everything changed when I saw the CASS+ leaflet in the court pack. I decided to call the Exeter office. I couldn’t believe my luck when the volunteer explained that they could support me through the court process and help me understand the process and the forms.

Free advice and support

I was so relieved to discover that the advice and support was completely free.

Someone in my corner

Now I had someone in my corner. As a result, my confidence improved. For anyone going through this, here’s what to do:

Put your child first – this is about making sure they are secure, safe and have access to their parents.

Navigating court

Ben, Exeter Coordinator, explained the court process and was with me every step of the way. Nothing was too much trouble. I was listened to. As a result, I no longer felt like a number.

Best outcome

We have the best outcome because now my son sees his dad regularly.

If CASS+ had not been there

If CASS+ had not been there, my anger and frustration would have got the better of me. They may not have decided in my son’s interests if I had behaved badly our of frustration at court. Also, I needed the support of CASS+ to understand what was happening. On top of this, I would have fallen into the trap of taking out loans for expensive solicitors. As a result, CASS+ has saved me from running up massive debts.

Free and secure

I have already had a lot of challenges, even before all this. Fighting for my son has been the hardest of all. It’s such a relief to be free of the control.

Contact CASS+

Nobody should go through court alone. Ben and the volunteers at Exeter Crown & County Court have been phenomenal. If you find yourself in my shoes, please contact CASS+. This charity provides invaluable support to people like me, and so many others.’