“My day usually begins with checking any messages that have come in overnight from our clients. I respond, explaining what support and protection is available so that they know they are not alone in the process. In the morning, I gather witness statements from clients who are seeking a civil injunction, so I can complete their court bundles. Then I hand these cases over to our networks of legal partners (solicitors’ firms) to take these matters forward through the civil courts. This structured schedule, with a bit of breathing room, helps me stay organised and allocate the right amount of time to each case.”
What attracted you to your role at the DA Alliance?
“I was drawn to this role because of how unique of an experience it offers. I thought that it would be an opportunity to boost my practical legal experience in a way not many others could say they have. My career goal is to become a family solicitor specialising in domestic abuse matters, so my role as a caseworker here is providing me with an ideal starting point”.
What personal or professional experience has helped you in your role at the DA Alliance?
“I hold a First-Class LLB and had recently completed my LPC LLM before joining the DA Alliance, which was crucial in preparing me for practical work in the legal field. I’ve also volunteered with several pro-bono family law clinics, helping to develop my client-care skills. Understanding how to communicate with clients and assess their individual needs is critical. Whether clients need to get through the legal process quickly, or if they need extra support and attention, it’s vital to recognise that each person may each require something different from you”.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
“The most rewarding part of my work is knowing that I’m helping people living with domestic abuse feel a little bit safer every day. Often, even just having the opportunity to speak to someone about the abuse they have experienced is a huge relief to them. What truly makes it worthwhile is hearing from clients who we have supported, about the positive impact we’ve had on their lives.
What more do you think could be done to support victims of domestic abuse?
“Access to Legal Aid remains our biggest challenge. It’s disheartening that many of the people referred to our service aren’t eligible for Legal Aid. Survivors are often forced to jump through several hoops to secure public funding in order to escape their abuse”.
“Whilst many victims may choose to pursue the pro-bono route, this means they must represent themselves in court and, often, face their perpetrator. Everyone deserves to live a life free from abuse but gaps in public funding can leave many victims even more vulnerable, if they don’t feel able to navigate the legal process without professional support”.
“I’m looking forward to following the outcome of the Domestic Abuse Protection Order (DAPO) pilot, which is currently underway. These new orders, introduced under the Domestic Abuse Act (2021) are being trialled by British Transport Police, the Metropolitan Police Service and Greater Manchester Police. We are supporting victim-led applications for DAPOs in these police force areas. If the pilot is a success, the intention is that DAPOs will become the ‘go-to’ civil order and strengthening protection for victim-survivors of domestic abuse”.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone applying to work at the DA Alliance?
“If you work in this sector, you must keep believing in the impact you’re making – your support is helping to change someone’s life for the better. Even though your role may feel small, you’re playing a huge part in helping someone start to heal from the abuse they’ve suffered, and your support will stay with them for a long time afterwards”.
