After coming to the UK in 2002, Mrs Fatima lived with her husband and two children. In July 2005, her husband started an affair with another woman. He began to stay out, not coming home.

All the money including child benefit was going to her husband’s account. He begun to pay less house keeping money and when she protested, he beat her. After several weeks, the situation became unbearable, but she did not know what she should do. She confided in a close family friend who had been helped by RASA.

An appointment was made for her to come to RASA, so she could explain the situation. She was very distressed at the appointment and broke down in tears.
It was a very difficult interview and stressful for all concerned. RASA obtained Child Tax Credit and Child Benefit Forms and filled them in on her behalf and sent them to the benefits agencies.

RASA made an appointment for her to visit her GP, accompanied her to the surgery, and explained the situation. Mrs Fatima was unable to speak sufficient English, so RASA acted as an interpreter. With RASA’s help she obtained specialist counselling for herself and her daughter.

When her husband found out what was happening he became very violent. The police arrested him and removed him from the home. Early next morning Mrs Fatima came to RASA fearing that she would be beaten again when he was released. RASA took her to the Homelessness Unit and helped her obtain emergency accommodation the same day. After a few weeks, she was given her own accommodation.

The next day RASA made an appointment to accompany Mrs Fatima to a solicitor to obtain an order to prevent her husband from taking the children away from her. RASA supported her at the many interviews that were held with the solicitors. RASA attended County Court with her in September 2005 to obtain sole parental responsibility.

Now Mrs Fatima is in a safe and suitable environment, she is financially secure and happy.