Sofiya contacted our Helpline, as she had been experiencing abuse from her husband since coming to the UK several years ago. Due to her immigration status, Sofiya relied on her marriage to remain in the UK and continue working.
Their home was in her husband’s name, so she was afraid of being made homeless if her relationship broke down. Sofiya was isolated from any family or friends in the UK and had no one to turn to for help.
Sofiya had reported various assaults to the police at first… but she was conflicted between her feelings for her husband, and her concerns for her own safety.
“I was so scared and I didn’t think anyone could help me.”
Although Sofiya speaks English, she sometimes needed an interpreter when speaking over the telephone to fully understand information from the police or other professionals.
A Helpline advisor spoke with Sofiya about seeking emergency refuge accommodation. We were able to support her with applying for benefits in her own name and accessing emotional support.
“It made me understand I ‘m not alone and can’t reach out and speak to people about what ’s happening, that gave me great advice on all matters not just the abuse I suffered.”