Others talked about the importance that having a
rental property meant for keeping their family
together or being able move their family to a safer
place to live for those who were fleeing family
violence. The case studies of Tom, Sally and her
cousin illustrate the difference the program has
made for them in being able to rebuild their
families. After securing an NRAS property
combined with brokerage support, Tom is now
able to have his children come and stay in their
own room and because he was able to secure an
affordable property he can also afford to take
them out. As a consequence his mental health has
improved significantly and he is starting to return
to work one day a week.
Tom
11 contacts
Tom was referred from [Service] for support with housing. He was in between places and wanted
to have a stable home for his two children. After an assessment Tom was considered financially
suitable for the housing project. His mental health was being supported by his [Service] worker
however his insecure housing was impacting on his mental health. WCC assisted Tom with support
letters for his applications for private rental. In the process of seeking private rental, Tom’s
situation changed. His access to his children had been limited to only having access every second
weekend. His income also changed and he was no longer receiving family tax benefit. His urgency
for housing was also critical as he only had a month left in his current accommodation. WCC
referred Tom to the local real estate agents in Thomastown but this was not successful as he was
seeking very affordable rental of $250 a week. Finally Tom was able to secure a NRAS rental and
was assisted with our housing loan. Tom is on track with repayments and travelling better with his
mental health.
Sally and her cousin
19 contacts, 4 contacts
Sally was a long-term client of the agency and first presented in early 2013. She experienced
family violence and fled from her husband with her children and continued to receive casework
support from WCC during this time. Sally had a cousin living in the area who assisted with
navigating the service system and also emotional support. To reduce the costs of her housing Sally
decided to move into a rental property with her cousin. Both needed assistance with rent in
advance. They also had some difficulties applying for a bond loan and WCC provided advocacy on
their behalf and a bond loan was granted. Sally continued to engage with the broader programs at
WCC including English classes. Sally no longer requires an interpreter as her English has improved
significantly, as well as her written English and she is much more settled and content with life.
Both Sally and her cousin are on track with repayments.
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