Joy came to see us at one of our outreach clinics. She was very distressed as she had been living abroad for several years but in a very abusive relationship. She had no family support in her adopted country so upon hearing her plight, a local church group purchased her a flight ticket back to Northern Ireland allowing her to flee. She was so scared of her partner that she left with only the clothes she was wearing whilst he was away from the house. 

Upon returning to Northern Ireland, she had been staying with various members of her family which was often cramped and causing both her and them great anxiety. Joy’s family in NI had done their best to help her but were understandably struggling to assist her financially. 

Understanding the key priorities, our Adviser assisted Joy in making a homeless application and claims for benefits she should be entitled to.  She was awarded £500 in discretionary support payments which she did not have to repay and was signposted to a local charitable support organisation where she was able to purchase a winter coat and other items to help in winter months. 

Joy has since been awarded Universal Credit and has been assessed for her housing need. She was so happy to have found a lifeline in Community Advice and other supporting charities that could assist her at this most difficult time. 

NOTE: Names have been changed and Image is not representative