My name is Phillip* I was referred to FCWA after I was assaulted by my wife. I attended A&E with a fractured cheekbone. The hospital completed an X-ray on my face and found an older fracture on my eye socket. I had been with my wife for 10 years and throughout the relationship she was controlling and physically violent towards me. I don’t know how it happened but by the end of the relationship she was fully in control of all aspects of my life.
When she was arrested for assaulting me, she was bailed back to our home address. I was unable to return so I had to access emergency hostel accommodation. This was difficult as a victim of abuse. I was expected to leave my home, my children and had no access to any of the joint finances. This was for me the lowest point.
FCWA helped me to understand that domestic abuse can happen to men too. I was supported to report her to the police, attend court and give evidence against her. I was able to re-establish contact with the children and my family, whom I was isolated from.
Eventually with support from the Male IDVA, I was able to find alternative accommodation out of the local area and establish links in my new community.
12 months on from receiving support from FCWA, I have put on weight and my facial injuries are barely noticeable. I have my own home and have started a new job, which I love! My confidence has grown since starting back at work and I finally feel that I can start to live again.
I honestly can’t thank you enough for helping me out when I needed it. I didn’t know that what was happening to me was domestic abuse.
*Phillip’s name has been changed to protect his identity. He has given consent for his story to be used to help others.
