Barriers for professionals accessing support, case study – Sarah’s story

“I know that the shame and embarrassment I felt should not have stopped me from seeking help.”

Sarah, a dedicated district nurse working in Essex, had been married to her husband, John, for 25 years. They shared a large home in the Hertfordshire countryside with their two children—an adult child studying away at university and a teenager still living at home.

John had always been controlling, but Sarah had managed to cope, especially since he often worked away. However, everything changed during the COVID-19 pandemic when John began working from home, John’s controlling and abusive behaviour became worse.

In May 2023, Sarah’s life took a pivotal turn

Upon arriving at work with bruises on her face and a noticeable limp, her concerned line manager asked what had happened. Though hesitant, Sarah’s response led to a report being made to the NHS safeguarding team lead for domestic abuse.

Sarah reluctantly agreed to a referral to a domestic abuse service out of her area as she was concerned about being known and her professionalism being questioned. Sarah agreed to speak with Estelle an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) from a support service located in a different area of Essex from where Sarah worked.

Building trust and taking action

Over the next few months, Estelle began to earn her trust. A thorough risk assessment was conducted, revealing the full extent of the danger Sarah was in. Estelle, recognising the high risk, took swift action, ensuring Sarah’s workplace were made aware and a safety plan implemented. Due to Sarah living in Hertfordshire, it was necessary for Estelle to make a referral to the Hertfordshire Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) with Sarah’s knowledge.

Sarah’s life slowly began to change. Sarah was supported to safely leave her family home; an application was made to the Women’s Aid emergency fund to support Sarah’s deposit for a private rent property. Sarah was also supported in seeking medical treatment for the injuries she had sustained, injuries that included permanent damage to her kidneys and scarring on her body. She had avoided seeking medical support in the past due to the nature of her role as District Nurse and staff knowing her.

Estelle provided Sarah with a safe space to discuss issues with a non-judgemental attitude. In addition to physical support, Sarah was given access to therapeutic services to help her process the trauma she had endured. She was also introduced to the Kulpa app, which allowed her to document evidence of the abuse, a necessary precaution since her husband had previously deleted similar evidence from her phone.

Moving forward and changing pathways

As Sarah’s confidence grew, so did her ability to take control of her life. With the help of Estelle, she received advice on everything from civil orders to potential legal actions and eventually decided to pursue a divorce.

Although Sarah’s journey was not without setbacks, Sarah had achieved something she once thought impossible: she had fled the family home, taking her children with her. She began speaking openly about her experiences with those close to her. She understood now that the abuse was not her fault, and the shame she once felt had diminished.

Sarah went on to gain a promotion at work, something John would have previously discouraged or blocked. This promotion not only boosted her confidence but also improved her ability to support herself and her children financially.

Today, Sarah understands the dynamics of abuse, knows her rights, and is empowered to live her life on her own terms.

Conclusion

Sarah’s journey highlights the unique challenges faced by professionals and those working within domestic abuse services when they themselves become victims. The complexities of such cases underline the need for different approaches to domestic abuse intervention. Building trust with victims, especially those who are professionals themselves, requires time, patience, and an understanding of the additional barriers they face.

The fear of being “known,” coupled with concerns about professional reputation, can make reaching out for help even more difficult. Through a combination of trust-building, tailored support, and empowerment, Sarah was able to reclaim her life, ensuring a safer and more secure future for herself and her children.

For information on how to support your staff with domestic abuse please see our good practice guide.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse our professional pathway to accessing services will be able to help you.