Thank you so much! It has been the hardest time, but you've taken so many worries away. We are starting new beginnings after 32 years of hell. I’m ready to open up and start healing, and so are my two children. We laugh together now, something we weren’t allowed to do before. Thank you all so much.

Annie

Victim Support Scotland began helping Annie* when she applied to the Emergency Assistance Fund (EAF). After separating from her partner, Annie moved with her children, aged 2 and 6, to temporary accommodation due to overcrowding at her family home.

In the temporary accommodation, Annie faced harassment and threats from her ex-partner, who tried to break in and take the children. To ensure safety, Annie relocated again, kept the new address secret, and moved her eldest to a new school. Despite precautions, her ex-partner found them, causing a police incident at the school.

After he called, revealing her location, housing authorities advised another move. Annie received a permanent home but kept the address confidential. The harassment persisted, with her ex-partner calling to confirm the new address. Seeking legal advice, Annie was told to gather evidence, and VSS recommended using the Hollie Guard app.

Annie moved to a 4-bedroom house with her three children, striving for stability while remaining cautious of her ex-partner's potential to find them again. Victim Support Scotland provided Annie with multifaceted support, including:

  • Financial assistance through the EAF for essential needs.
  • Safety planning and advice, including the use of the Hollie Guard app.
  • Emotional support and regular check-ins to ensure her well-being.
  • Advocacy and guidance in dealing with housing authorities and legal counsel.

Annie told us, “Thank you so much! It has been the hardest time, but you've taken so many worries away. The ring doorbell will make life easier. I can’t thank you enough for everything—my freezer is stocked, we have new clothes. We are starting new beginnings after 32 years of hell. I’m ready to open up and start healing, and so are my two children. We laugh together now, something we weren’t allowed to do before. Thank you all so much.”

*Name changed to preserve anonymity. Pictures are for illustrative purposes only.