Susan* experienced extreme relationship violence, which caused the loss of her business and privately owned home. Threatening behaviours continued in the form of stalking after the relationship ended. She lived in hiding out of fear for her safety, and was facing ongoing challenges with her health as a result of violence.   

When Susan enquired about a Good Loan for some legal costs, she was renting a home shared with her son who is autistic. She was receiving the sickness benefit and struggling to meet the costs of basic needs. Years of lengthy court proceedings against her ex-partner had taken a toll, which worsened when the High Court ruled in favour of Susan receiving $61,000 for unpaid child support and her ex fled the country in response. 

While she was seeking financial support to progress her legal battle, Susan’s ex made complaints to the Ministry of Social Development, the legal aid service and Inland Revenue. This prevented her accessing any financial assistance from these agencies. 

Good Shepherd’s family violence economic harm support service explored options for Susan including a bridging loan. But the complex nature of her situation limited the affordability and repayment of a loan. We approved a grant to cover the cost for Susan to apply for, register and serve bankruptcy documents to her ex so she can be paid the money she is owed. The unpaid child support will enable Susan to get back on her feet and hold her ex-partner accountable. She will have more options to move to affordable housing, plan for a better future, and continue improving her mental and emotional wellbeing. 

Working alongside Susan, our team also discussed housing support, connected her with the Salvation Army to address basic needs, and introduced her to a financial mentor to help with challenges moving forward.

In an email, Susan says “Thank you, thank you so much. You have no idea how long I have been waiting for good news. Everyone always has the best intentions but for some reason or another, they can never help! I am forever grateful and will pay it forward as soon as I can”.

“It feels like suddenly there is ground under my feet instead of being in free fall. It still hasn’t fully sunken in yet”.

* name has been changed for safety.