Kate’s story

In 2023, Kate* was referred by Liaison and Diversion after being seen in custody on charge of intent to supply Class B drugs. 

Her abusive husband was involved in selling drugs and Kate was erroneously implicated when she went home and unknowingly stepped into the crime scene being investigated. 

At the time of referral, Kate was experiencing complications with an autoimmune condition which left her very malnourished. She was also struggling with symptoms of PTSD from medical procedures, anxiety, depression and, as a result of domestic abuse, she suffered from psychotic episodes for which she was sectioned. 

Kate was supported by her key worker to appeal a previous PIP (Personal Independence Payment) decision which saw Kate receiving the standard rate for daily living and mobility 

The appeal resulted in Kate been awarded the highest rate. This meant she could afford to buy a car so she could attend her appointments and social opportunities more easily. 

With Kate’s permission, a referral was made to the local commissioned domestic abuse service which successfully worked with Kate. Kate was also supported to attend counselling sessions at Alana House which changed her life. She was now able to manage her physical and emotional symptoms, and cope with stressors including those associated with her previous experience of domestic abuse related trauma. 

Kate was living in overcrowded conditions at home and was also being evicted by family after fleeing her husband’s abuse. With support from her key worker, Kate was offered by the council an appropriate accommodation that met her needs. Kate worked with her key worker to ensure housing benefit, council tax support, bills and bill reductions were in place. 

Gradually, the frequency of support stepped down from weekly to fortnightly to monthly meetings. These took place in the hospital, in the community and eventually in her home as Kate regained control over her life and symptom management. 

Kate wanted to go back to university but she found it difficult due to previous issues around her student finances. With the help of her key worker, which included supporting letters and phone calls, the situation was successfully resolved and Kate was able to return to university and just recently obtained a first in her first year. 

Kate is healthy and she is in control of her depression and anxiety, having found coping strategies that work for her. 

Kate recently participated in a Ministerial visit to Alana House, where she shared her experience of the criminal justice system, the relationship between this and domestic abuse and her impactful reflections on how women’s centres should be funded. 

Kate said: “Thank you so much – I’m so pleased the meeting went well. I was really glad we had the chance to share our experiences, thoughts and feelings. Everyone was so polite and welcoming, and I truly appreciate being part of it. I’m also really pleased to hear that the Minister described it as inspirational. Honestly, hats off to you all at Alana House – whatever you do, you do it with such care and excellence. It’s incredible how you change lives. As victims and service users, we truly wouldn’t be where we are today without the support you provide. You’ve built such a strong and compassionate network from every angle, and that makes all the difference. Thank you again for having me.” 

* Name changed for confidentiality