Katie, 32, a mum of two from the Midlands, shares her story about finding hope again after suffering emotional abuse and isolation…

“A year ago, life felt overwhelming. As a single parent, I was trying to hold everything together for my children while battling the impact of emotional abuse and isolation. On the outside, I did my best to stay strong, but behind closed doors I was exhausted, struggling with my mental health and carrying a weight that felt impossible to bear alone.

“There were days when I couldn't see a way forward. The constant pressure of caring for my children while dealing with my own emotional pain left me feeling trapped and hopeless. At my lowest point, I experienced suicidal thoughts. It wasn't that I wanted to leave my children, it was that I couldn't see any escape from the exhaustion and hurt I was carrying every day.

“Reaching out for help was one of the hardest things I've ever done. Admitting that I couldn't manage everything on my own felt frightening, but I contacted Ben and that decision changed my life.

“From the very first conversation, I felt heard. Ben provided something I hadn't experienced for a long time - a safe space where I could talk openly without being judged. They listened to my experiences, helped me recognise the impact that the emotional abuse had been having on me and reassured me that what I was feeling was valid.

“At a time when I felt close to breaking point, Ben offered me compassion and practical support. They helped me stabilise my mental health, rebuild my confidence and start to see myself differently. Little by little, I started reconnecting with my sense of self-worth and believing that life could be about more than just getting through each day.

“The support helped my children too. When I began to feel stronger and more supported, I was able to be more present for them. The changes in me created a calmer environment for my family, giving us all the opportunity to start moving forward together.

“For the first time in a long time, I can look ahead with hope. I'm no longer living purely in survival mode. Instead, I'm rebuilding my life, taking positive steps forward and beginning to imagine a future that feels brighter.

“I will always be grateful for the support Ben gave me. Their help genuinely changed the direction of my life and gave me the chance to believe in a better future for myself and my children.”

Our client chose to remain anonymous, so her details have been changed and a stock image used. 

Support provided by our team:

  • Mental health support

  • Signposting for debt advice and other relevant organisations 

  • Support with arranging a payment plan for rent arrears

  • Budgeting advice

  • Gifted places on Ben's Ferrari Day event for the whole family to create special memories. 

Support more people like Katie
To get involved and help us be there for other members of our automotive family, visit www.ben.org.uk/donate.