Kat’s story

After leaving care Kat spent 18 months in prison for offending behaviour. She experiences mental and physical health problems and has a history of self-harm.

Kat was three months pregnant and experiencing domestic violence when she was referred to the support coach service. Her support coach gave Kat practical and emotional help to move away from her partner and settle in a new location.

As well as helping her to find suitable housing, the support coach accompanied Kat to her ante natal appointments. This helped with her mental health and for reassurance as she was worried that her former partner would find her at the hospital.

Kat was overjoyed to get a suitable offer of accommodation. Her support coach helped her to furnish the home, sort out her benefits and set up utilities and payment plans.

After liaising with social services, the support coach service is now providing ongoing support until Kat is fully settled and feels able to live independently.

We have used a stock photo and changed Kat’s name to protect her anonymity.