Noeleen was contacted by YFS through the SHINE program (which provides domestic and family violence support) after a referral from the Queensland Police Service.
For a long time, friends and family members had been encouraging Noeleen to leave her husband, who was using violence. But things weren’t so simple.
“People saying to get out of it, you can’t live like this – words aren’t enough. The situation knocks you so low. You know they are right but you are scared of what’s going to happen if you try.”
When YFS contacted Noeleen, she was immediately impressed with the domestic violence caseworker’s specialist knowledge and skills as they guided the conversation.
“I was so frightened because my husband was still at home at the time. But she [the SHINE caseworker] checked that I was safe to talk. She listened to my story and was very gentle and careful and knew how to make me feel comfortable. I needed that.”
Together, SHINE and Noeleen created a plan to help Noeleen and her youngest son, also at home, find safety. They applied for a protection order, had security cameras installed at Noeleen’s residence, accessed Queensland’s escaping violence payment, and organised counselling.
“I was blown away by how supportive they were. You can’t make good decisions when you’re in that situation, not on your own. Not when you’re in survival mode.”
Noeleen and her sons are now building new lives free of violence. Noeleen describes the process as surreal.
“Not wondering what he is going to do next – it is the most amazing feeling.”
“At first we couldn’t believe it. We didn’t realise life could be like this. I remember going to the shopping centre with my youngest son and just seeing a movie. It was the best feeling ever. We felt so free.”
Reflecting on her own experiences, Noeleen wants others in similar situations to also find safety and have the chance to start again.
“The scariest part is leaving the situation. But I think it’s wise, if you have the right supports.”
“You might have no confidence in yourself. You might feel like trash because they’ve been telling you this stuff for years.”
“But with the right support, like SHINE, you can get on top of life again. They won’t force you to do anything but will help you and as things start settling down you’ll start gaining strength to be able to stand on your own.”
“You’ll start seeing there is a different life out there. And it’s never too late.”
