Empowerment Through Partnership: Sarah’s Story

Limerick City Partnership provides an outreach support clinic in collaboration with ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services, creating a safe and welcoming space where individuals can access practical supports and guidance.

Through our outreach service with ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services, Sarah was identified as needing additional support. Sarah initially presented seeking assistance with writing a CV. However, it quickly became clear that she was experiencing significant personal and financial challenges. Her partner had recently left the family home, leaving Sarah solely responsible for all household bills and the care of four children, ranging from crèche to college-going age. Although she was working part-time, her income was not sufficient to meet the demands of childcare, household expenses, and education costs.

SICAP staff began working with Sarah on a one-to-one basis to address her immediate financial needs. She was supported to apply for the One-Parent Family Payment. While awaiting a decision—and following an initial refusal—staff assisted her in applying for Supplementary Welfare Allowance and supported her through the application and appeals process. Sarah remained on Supplementary Welfare for several months until the One-Parent Family Payment was successfully awarded.

In addition, Sarah was supported with a range of administrative tasks, including writing letters, appealing decisions, and navigating complex processes. As she lives in a remote area with limited public transport, supports were delivered flexibly, with meetings arranged around bus schedules to ensure accessibility.

While balancing a full-time course, Sarah received ongoing support with CV preparation, job applications, and interview skills. To support her progression towards employment, SICAP staff also organised a visit to a local organisation offering job opportunities. Sarah’s dedication led to her securing a new part-time role, using her qualification from college.

Sarah was also introduced to the Woodlands for Health programme. This is a walking group delivered by our Social Prescribing team in partnership with Limerick Sports Partnership. It aims to reduce isolation and promote overall wellbeing. To further support her wellbeing and confidence, Sarah was offered a place on a weekly Personal Development course facilitated by SICAP staff. She engaged fully and reported that the course had a very positive impact on her mindset.

“I am so glad that I am attending this course. It is so, so good.”

During this time, Sarah also shared concerns about her eldest child, who had secured a place in college but needed a laptop to participate in their course. She was unsure how she could afford this. SICAP staff met with her eldest child and supported them in applying for a bursary through Limerick City Partnership for first-time college students. The application was successful, and they received a laptop, enabling them to fully engage in their studies.

Sarah’s progress was enabled through the strong partnership between Limerick City Partnership and ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services. This collaborative approach ensured she could access a wide range of supports, allowing ADAPT staff to focus on domestic abuse interventions while SICAP staff provided wraparound support across financial, social, educational, and employment needs.