Nkechi’s path to healing and recovery from abuse

How Hopscotch’s integrated services empowered a survivor of multiple forms of abuse to seek help and begin her journey to recovery 

Situation

Nkechi is a young woman who has been a victim of various forms of abuse throughout her life. As a child, she experienced sexual abuse and violence at the hands of her family members. Her traumatic experiences continued into adulthood, as she found herself in relationships where she was further abused, financially exploited and gang raped. The ongoing abuse she endured left her deeply traumatised and distrustful.

Support Provided

Nkechi first attended the Hopscotch One Stop Shop (OSS) after learning about the services from another organisation focused on violence against women and girls (VAWG). When Nkechi arrived at the OSS, she was visibly distressed, clinging to her support worker’s arm and avoiding eye contact. She spoke very little, and much of the initial information was gathered through her support worker, who remained a constant source of support and comfort.

• Dedicated Advocate – Recognising the severity of Nkechi’s situation, Hopscotch allocated a dedicated VAWG Advocate to provide her with weekly support. These sessions were held at a location familiar to Nkechi, ensuring she felt safe and comfortable. Over the past three months, these sessions have become a consistent and reassuring part of her week.
• Compassionate and Ongoing Support – It’s not been easy to communicate with Nkechi, but through writing and journal keeping, Nkechi has disclosed to our Advocate information that was never shared with other professionals. The Advocate engages in boundary-setting activities and breathing exercises during the sessions to help Nkechi feel relaxed. As a result of this trust that has carefully been built up, Nkechi looks forward to her weekly sessions and has now agreed to be referred to professional counselling with a psychotherapist.
• Legal Support – A Legal Representative advised Nkechi on her legal rights and the support she could access if she chose to act against her abusers. Initially, Nkechi was very scared to make any reports due to her lack of confidence in the prosecution system. However, the legal representative provided detailed guidance on the best steps to take to make a disclosure, gradually helping Nkechi build the confidence needed to consider her options.
• Welfare Benefits – To address her immediate needs, Hopscotch’s Welfare Adviser began by discussing Nkechi’s rights and her entitlement to benefits. This step was crucial in helping Nkechi understand the support available to her and easing some of her financial worries.

Impact 

Nkechi’s case highlights the importance of a patient, empathetic, and holistic approach to supporting victims of abuse. The combination of legal advice, consistent emotional support, and gradual trust-building activities has enabled Nkechi to take vital steps towards healing and recovery.