Lichfield and district vcse forum – 5 december 2018 Presentation for Pathway Project Kathy Coe, CEO
Why is it hard to leave an abuser. Physical abuse Why is it hard to leave an abuser? Physical abuse emotional abuse financial abuse sexual abuse coercion control
Fiona lives with her partner and 14 year old son works as an admin assistant in a large company Tells no-one of the frequent assaults from her partner
Tell tale signs No one ever asks although: frequent visits to a&e written warning at work for unexplained days off and being distracted doesn’t socialise – has no friends partner often takes her to work and picks her up she goes to work with bruises and injuries
Why doesn’t she leave? GUILT FEAR SOMEWHERE SAFE TO STAY SON – GOOD DAD? MONEY LOSS OF JOB
The impact CONSTANT STATE OF PANIC CAN’T MAKE FRIENDS OR GET CLOSE TO ANYONE CAN’T HAVE FAMILY VISITS WITHOUT DISASTER PHYSICAL HEALTH SUFFERS MENTAL HEALTH SUFFERS ANXIETY / DEPRESSION / SELF HARM / SUICIDAL THOUGHTS
Who missed the signs? WORK – MANAGERS WORK – COLLEAGUES HOSPITAL GP SCHOOL NEIGHBOURS LIFE IS FULL OF SADNESS, FEAR AND RESIGNATION.
Would you spot the signs? INJURIES MISSING WORK NO FRIENDS CONSTANT CALLS AND MESSAGES FROM PARTNER ON EDGE APPEARS SCARED SON – LIMITED SOCIALISING
What do you do if she says yes? Offer a listening ear but ensure safe space Is it crisis or lower risk? Access support from local service / refuge Advise legal help and advice TELL HER YOU BELIEVE HER!
Any questions?