Involuntary Abuse of Polish Immigrant

JF is a 38 year old Woman who originates from Poland.

January 2006 JF took a very brave step by leaving Poland for Wales, leaving behind her only son of 14 to reside with his father.  JF had separated from her husband of almost 20 years.   Her son was settled in Poland and did not want to come to Wales.  JF knew there would be difficult times ahead especially as she could not speak a word of English.   JF has a sister in law that lives in Wales and decided as a start to stay with the sister in law whilst she looked for employment and get her life together.
 
On arriving to Newport as planned JF went to stay with her sister in law.  JF was surprised and horrified to find that her sister in law was an alcoholic and was a drug abuser.  JF knew this would be a problem but at the same time was sympathetic because it was her sister in law and partly because she had nowhere else to go.
 
The sister in law was aware of this and took great advantage by forcing JF to do all the household chores, from cooking cleaning, shopping.  These chores were not only for the sister in law but anybody that came to the house for the daily fix or binge of alcohol.   If JF refused any orders she was beaten up and threatened to be thrown out onto the street.  This abuse continued for over 2 months.  

 One morning JF decided enough was enough and she was going to try to find lodgings elsewhere.  The sister in law became very aggressive towards her and threatened that wherever JF went she would find her and deal with her appropriately.  JF interpreted that as a threat on her life.

Later that day JF was attacked by her sister in law and her partner, before she knew what was really happening to her she was blind folded and forced into a car.  JF was taken to a place where she was locked up for over twelve hours.   She went through a horrific ordeal where she was repeatedly raped and beaten.   She had been subject to what is known as "Trafficking".  This case did become a Police matter, but unfortunately no action was taken because there was not enough evidence.

 JF came to BAWSO referred by Newport Police.  Since coming to BAWSO JF has been supported with her English.  She attends English twice a week and is also supported by interpreters when she has appointments.    JF initially signed on for Benefits.  JF also made the necessary applications for National Insurance Number and housing and also Application for habitual residency had been made.  JF wasted no time in seeking work.   Within one month of being in refuge JF had been awarded her National Insurance Number.

 JF was persistent and applied for numerous jobs.   JF was very successful and at the moment is in employment and is recognized as being a very hard working, trustworthy woman within one of the biggest cleaning companies in Wales.  She has also being contracted to various jobs in England and is presently doing very well.
 
JF's housing applications are very promising and hopefully it should not be too long before she is housed.
 
JF's confidence has really been boosted and she has been remarkable in rebuilding her life