In the UK, where over 2.4 million adults experience domestic abuse annually, survivors often face compounded challenges—navigating the trauma of abuse, financial instability, and health crises simultaneously. For individuals like Reena Dhaliwal (name changed), these intersecting hardships can create a seemingly insurmountable barrier to recovery. However, a network of support services exists to assist survivors in rebuilding their lives. Organizations such as Women’s Aid and Refuge provide critical resources, including emergency housing, financial assistance, and counseling, to those escaping domestic abuse. Additionally, cancer support charities like Macmillan Cancer Support and Maggie’s Centres offer guidance on managing the financial and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, ensuring that individuals like Reena receive comprehensive care during their most vulnerable times.
Some stories don’t begin with a breakthrough or a fresh start. They begin in survival mode—layered in fear, illness, and the quiet exhaustion of trying to carry on. That’s exactly where Reena Dhaliwal (name changed) found herself when she was referred by her GP for isolation and stress.
But when social prescriber Sophie Tough visited her at home, it was clear the situation was far more urgent.
Reena had experienced domestic abuse at the hands of both her partner and children. She was alone in a home that was up for sale. She had no family support, was living on benefits, and was just days away from starting cancer treatment. With no working appliances, no reliable warmth, and no secure housing in place, Reena’s life had become a slow-burning emergency.
Sophie immediately responded with empathy and decisive action.
She referred Reena to Adult Social Care for carers and requested an occupational therapy assessment. A home safety device—a door alarm—was discussed to improve her sense of security. Practical aid was also initiated: Sophie referred her to Warm Homes and Act on Energy to help cover heating costs, and started the process to source clothing and essential white goods.
Reena had also applied for homelessness support, and Sophie followed up to ensure her application was in motion. With cancer treatment approaching, Sophie also began exploring options for hospital transport to make sure Reena could attend appointments safely and with dignity.
Now, progress is beginning to take shape. A support plan is underway. Referrals are in motion. And slowly, Reena’s days are becoming a little more manageable.
Support is still ongoing, but the difference is visible: Reena is no longer facing every challenge alone. “I hope once her housing and bills are stabilised, she’ll feel a bit more like herself again,” Sophie says. “We’re also looking at ways to reduce her loneliness in future.”
Through it all, Reena has expressed gratitude—for the phone calls, the follow-through, the warmth. Sometimes it’s not about solving every problem at once. Sometimes, it’s about being the one steady hand in someone’s storm.
CHALLENGES AT A GLANCE
- Domestic Abuse
- Cancer Diagnosis
- Fuel Poverty
- Housing Uncertainty
- Social Isolation
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