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Sabbi, 14, was having a horrible time. Her Dad would put her down and criticise everything she did, and sometimes even hit her. But mainly his violence and aggression were directed at her Mum. Sabbi was happier when she was out with her mates, drinking at the park or at the back of the youth club. Sometimes she would cut herself to block out the pain at home.
One night at youth club she told her friend Ruth about cutting herself and about her Dad. Ruth promised not to tell anyone, but decided to tell her Mum as she was so worried. Her Mum decided to call the Child Protection Line and was directed to social work services.
Sabbi was visited by a social worker at school, and told her everything about her home situation, how unhappy she was, her father and the drinking and self-harm. The social worker had a meeting with her parents, who agreed that there had been problems. It was agreed that Sabbi needed some time away from home and she went to stay in a residential unit, and a plan was made for improving things at home.
While she was away from home there were regular meetings to keep track of progress, and eventually things at home improved. It was agreed that Sabbi could return home. The social worker visits Sabbi often and she is getting the support she needs.