Betty* had lived with her partner for several years in one of our sheltered schemes. When she quietly shared with a scheme coordinator that she was experiencing domestic abuse, we made referrals to Safe in Salford and Adult Social Care. But it wasn’t until her partner was admitted to hospital for a long stay that she finally felt able to talk openly about what she’d been going through.
Those conversations gave Betty the confidence to choose a different future. Although she loved her home and the friends she’d made, she felt the only way to move forward safely was to move out. She registered with Salford Home Search, but as the time for her partner’s discharge drew closer, the situation became more urgent.
After talking it through together, we were able to offer Betty a home that hadn’t been let through choice-based lettings. It turned out to be the perfect fit – great transport links, familiar supported housing staff, and a lively social group that runs regular activities.
Most importantly, it meant Betty no longer had to worry about her partner returning to the home they once shared.
Within two weeks, she was settling into her new place. She’s already joining in with coffee mornings and getting to know new neighbours – something she’d stopped doing while in her previous relationship.
Reflecting on the move, Betty told us:
“Words cannot describe how I feel now and the support I have had from ForHousing staff. They are wonderful, marvellous and amazing! I’m so happy, comfortable and feel safe in my new home.”
*Name changed to protect anonymity.
