Colin reached out to us in January 2020 when things got too much for him at home. A banker working full time in a good job, he lived with his wife and 10-year old son in a nice home which they owned jointly. But things were not all good. Colin came to us looking for advice because he was concerned about the effect that his wife’s behaviour was having on his son. He described that she was verbally abusive towards him and was using his credit cards when he didn’t have the money, without his consent and against his wishes.

In the months that followed, Cranstoun worked with Colin to support, protect and guide him. He was advised to contact social services to safeguard his son; to contact the Safeguarding Lead at the police and to apply for a ‘Prohibited his Steps Order, which would legally prevent his wife from taking their son overseas as she had threatened. Colin was also encouraged to make an appointment with his GP to address his mental health issues, where he was prescribed antidepressants.

Colin was now equipped with the information and tools that he would need to make changes, and a platform where could discuss his concerns. He didn’t want to leave the family home because of his son, and he was worried about having to pay for legal fees. But he was beginning to understand that he was a victim, and that his son was a victim as well.

In March of the same year things came to a head. Colin came home from work to find that his wife had ordered a fridge freezer that they didn’t need and couldn’t afford. In the argument that followed she called the police who advised that she should go and stay with family. She left taking their son. The police had witnessed her threatening behaviour towards Colin and suggested that he changed the locks to the property, which he did. When Colin’s wife couldn’t get in a few days later she was furious, and tried to break in. Once again the police were called. Colin arranged for her to come round a few days later, at a convenient time, to collect her things. He tried to be reasonable but was met with continued abuse.

As the weeks progressed, Colin’s wife refused to let him see his son and demanded large amounts of money off him, although she was also working full time and despite Colin still having to pay for their mortgage, the bills, his legal fees and the money he was sending to the family with whom his son (and wife) were staying. Colin was worried that he would lose his home and would not be able to hold down his job. He felt that his wife would know this, and this was why she was behaving in that way.

Cranstoun continued to support and encourage Colin. He was advised to keep a detailed record of all of his finances, including the money he was sending for his son’s upkeep. In the meantime, Colin’s wife applied for a Non Visitation Order against the opinion of social services, as well as Non Molestation and Occupation Orders to prevent Colin from being in their home. The hearings were set for early July, and both parties were asked not to contact each other. Colin’s wife refused.

On the day of the hearing, Colin’s wife changed her mind and withdrew Court Order applications. She still felt that she should have access to the home, but when the judge heard the evidence he felt that this was not advisable. For Colin, the best news was that a child contact arrangement hearing was scheduled for the end of the month. There was hope that Colin would be allowed to see his son again.

Colin is now in control, feels empowered, knows better how to react and where to turn to for help. Cranstoun has closed the case, but Colin knows he can pick up the phone at any time.

Jay first became involved with Cranstoun as a service user. With Jay’s openness, hard work and dedication he soon became a service user rep. Jay volunteered five days a week, offering support to service users and staff members.

He then took the brave jump towards paid employment, and with his compassion, incredible story and dedication to helping others, Jay now works for Cranstoun as a recovery worker.

Adrian worked alongside Cranstoun through our alcohol and other drugs service. When asked about working with Cranstoun, he said,

“I am now sober for 10 months and this I put down to the support I have received. I now live a fairly normal life, and no longer live my life around alcohol, wondering when I can have my next drink”.

Early intervention is crucial to break the cycle of crime and substance use. When speaking with a young person using our service this is what they had to say.

“Since working with my key worker I’ve been looking at ways to avoid smoking such as increasing the days I go to boxing. I have also learned how to reduce the health risks and about the impact on my mental health which was all new to me”.

Cranstoun offers all victims of domestic abuse our services. Here, we hope to break the stigma, to encourage male victims to come forward and allow everyone to live their lives safely.

*The names in this video have been changed and some content may be distressing for viewers.

We are pleased to have spoken with a teacher that works closely with us, on their experience of our Cranstoun Here4YOuth programme.

“Cranstoun Here4YOuth are totally committed and focused on delivering high quality intervention for our learners. While all statutory agencies are making cut backs in service, it is a lifeline to our school to have Cranstoun Here4YOuth as a valued partner agency.”

Debra experienced 28 years of domestic abuse. Finally free, she is stronger, braver and happier. Debra is a survivor. Watch her story to see how Cranstoun contributed to her journey to recovery.

Viewers may find some content distressing.