Diana, originally from Coventry, met her ex-partner while attending university in London. Together they had three children, but the relationship became abusive. Diana faced a lot of pressure and controlling behavior from her ex. She tried to leave once, but with no family or friends nearby, she ended up going back. The final straw came when her ex forced himself on her and threatened to take the children if she left again. Feeling hopeless, Diana overdosed and ended up in the hospital.
Diana’s family brought her back to Coventry. But her ex knew their address and threatened to take the kids. That’s when Valley House stepped in. They offered Diana and her children a safe place to stay – a family unit – in March 2024. Social workers also got involved to make sure the kids were okay (Child in Need plan).
Getting the children enrolled in local schools was a big hurdle at first, which meant Diana couldn’t access all the support Valley House offered. She also had trouble communicating with the special needs team at their old school in London. But Valley House staff wouldn’t give up and chased up the paperwork they needed.
Because Diana was proactive about finding a safe place and open to getting help, social workers didn’t need to be super involved. They mostly focused on checking in with the family (Child in Need meetings). Visits with the ex stopped after he tried to manipulate Diana and harass her family.
Diana and her caseworker at Valley House created a safety plan to keep her and the kids safe. This included things like changing passwords, limiting social media use, having safe words with Valley House and other agencies, blocking the ex’s number, and having emergency contacts. Diana also got legal advice about child contact arrangements. Valley House staff even made sure the house had extra security locks because the eldest child liked to unlock doors and windows when Diana was busy with the others.
Right away, Valley House staff assessed the needs of each child and created a support plan that was reviewed weekly and updated monthly. They also helped Diana get the children enrolled in local schools. It was tough to get them trauma support because they didn’t speak much yet and weren’t in school, but Valley House was hoping to get them WISH referrals (support for kids of domestic abuse victims) soon.
Diana built strong relationships with her caseworker and family support worker at Valley House. She’s always up for talking and doesn’t mind home visits or check-ins to see how things are going. The best part? The kids are finally enrolled in schools! Diana has a good support network too, including her brother (who can visit) and other family members. She’s very independent and doesn’t need constant help, but she keeps everyone updated and knows where to turn if she does. Most importantly, there’s a lot of love between Diana and her kids, which Valley House staff see during their visits.
Valley House provided Diana and her kids with a safe haven, support plans, risk assessments, help with social care, emotional support, and even parenting skills development. Looking ahead, they’ll keep working with social services, explore future housing options for Diana, and help her establish consistent routines and boundaries for the kids.
This story shows the challenges and triumphs of a family escaping domestic abuse. Valley House’s comprehensive support system is there for families like Diana’s, offering safety, stability, and ongoing help as they build a brighter future. Diana’s strength and determination, along with the support of dedicated professionals, pave the way for a happy and healthy life ahead.
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