Late one afternoon, just as our office was closing, a woman arrived with her children. She was visibly distressed. She had received a letter about a court hearing scheduled for the very next day involving her abusive ex partner. 

Lyndsey* was living in a refuge, had no childcare, and was terrified of attending court. She told our team she was planning not to turn up at all. 

Our volunteers gently explained that if she didn’t attend, a decision could be made in her absence, potentially putting her and her children at even greater risk. They reassured her that she wouldn’t be alone.

In a very short space of time, the team put practical support in place: they arranged special measures, identified a safe exit route, alerted court security, and made sure a volunteer would be there to support her throughout the hearing the next day. They also prepared detailed notes for the volunteer so they could quickly understand her situation and provide the right support. 

Lyndsey was able to attend her hearing and be heard by the judge. Because someone was there. Because the door was still open. Because support was available at the moment she needed it most.

*Name changed to protect client