Emma came to New Hope for tenancy support after she and her child had recently moved into temporary accommodation. She had arrears with the council and other debts.
The Tenancy Sustainment Team (TST) helped Emma arrange repayments and access benefits. She had regular meetings with Children’s Services, and her support worker often spoke with them on her behalf.
A life-changing accident
Progress was being made in managing her tenancy when an accident left her with broken bones, leading to a disability that may last for a number of years.
When Emma left hospital, she had limited mobility and her home was no longer suitable, so TST worked closely with the council housing team to find something more appropriate.
At the same time, arrangements began to secure temporary foster care for her child, as Emma was unable to care for her. During this difficult time, Emma struggled with her mental health and developed issues with substance misuse.
A new home and a new freedom
Eventually a ground floor flat was offered, but it was unfurnished, so TST arranged for a cooker to be installed and helped with paying the bills.
Thankfully, around this time a mobility scooter was donated to New Hope’s charity shop in Watford, and it was perfect for Emma.
Emma said: “It was amazing. I suddenly had freedom. I could go shopping on my own and I was really looking forward to trying a bus journey. I felt I could become who I was before my accident.”
Working towards being reunited
Emma continued to work closely with TST, accessing a local solicitor to help with Children’s Services so she could be reunited with her child. Her support worker regularly joined meetings and made sure Emma understood everything.
She also received support with her substance misuse, and TST advocated on her behalf to make sure she was not misrepresented.
Her support worker attended court with her and had many conversations with social workers to show Emma’s character accurately, the support she receives, and the progress she has made towards providing a safe and caring home for her child.
A TST Mental Health Outreach Worker said: “We are always trying to give Emma her own voice instead of her being known for her past.”
