IDVA support meant that Valentina didn’t have to go through the process alone

Following a visit to a One Stop drop in Valentina was referred for high risk IDVA support due to abuse from her partner. She was being coercively controlled and the perpetrator was threatening to make allegations that would threaten the career she had worked hard for. He was also refusing to move out of her property meaning she was the one that had to move out in order to keep herself safe. Her perpetrator would show up at the school pick-up each day to threaten and pressure her. He even told the school that he was the real victim in the situation. Due to the career Valentina had built she did not qualify for legal aid (financial support for court proceedings) so she was struggling to get support and change the situation.

When IDVA support began, Valentina was able to get help finding safe temporary accommodation. Her IDVA also helped to find legal representation and accompanied her to subsequent hearings so she didn’t have to attend alone. Valentina’s IDVA also advocated for her within the school, making staff fully aware of the abusers’ manipulation. This changed the school’s attitude towards Valentina, supporting her as the survivor of domestic abuse. Valentina’s IDVA helped with child contact arrangements ensuring that contact with her ex-partner was minimal. She was also able to return to work to continue supporting herself and her family.

IDVA support meant that Valentina didn’t have to go through the process alone. She was supported along the journey of removing abuse from her life and with help Valentina was able to safely return to the family home with her children.