An 11-year-old girl and her father in Coventry were overwhelmed to receive bags of donations from the team across P3 Warwickshire. Head of Services Esther Barrett sent a call round the teams asking for clothing in particular, as the young girl did not have much of her own. This was the response!!

The family’s support worker, Olga Sevciuc, explained more about their story:

“Daniel* is widowed and has raised his daughter Elena* alone since she was a baby.

The family came to UK from Romania, searching for a better life but were exploited in a modern slavery scheme. After this he tried to work on different jobs, and even worked for short periods, but it was impossible to keep employed because he is fully responsible for childcare.

When the first lockdown started, Daniel was referred into P3’s Floating Support in Coventry. He had already lost his trust in people, he was furious, confused and emotionally drained. I’ve comforted and supported him, and was there when he needed, with this approach gaining his trust day-by-day.

Support during lockdown was especially challenging; Daniel’s primary needs weren’t being met because of the impossibility of work, bureaucratic issues in accessing benefits, no other family or friends that could help, and IT and language difficulties. Alongside the Housing Department, Coventry Refugee Centre, Social Services and Children’s Services, we have been able to work towards the family regaining their independence.

We will continue working with the family so that their EU Pre-Settlement registration is granted, which will allow the family to apply for benefits, will open up more job opportunities that will allow Daniel to work around his childcare responsibilities, leading to financial independence and the possibility of their own tenancy.”

In response to the donations from the Warks teams, Olga said:

“The family in need and myself would like to thank you for all your love. Without your involvement and engagement, it would have not been possible to collect such a great amount of donations and achieve this important support. Each of your little presents have brought a positive change to this family and especially to Elena. Today, because of your generosity, a father and his daughter will have improved their lives.”

*names changed to protect identity.