Rebuilding Lives

Welfare benefit support

We can help people understand what financial support they may be entitled to and support them through benefit applications and reviews.

Universal Credit
Personal Independence Payment
Child Benefit and Child Maintenance issues
Housing costs & Council Tax Support
Benefit checks and applications
Mandatory reconsiderations and appeals

Debt and coerced debt support

Domestic abuse can often include financial abuse. This may leave someone with debts they did not freely choose, did not benefit from, or were not able to control.

What is coerced debt?

Coerced debt means debt that has been taken out because someone was pressured, threatened, controlled or manipulated into borrowing money, signing agreements, taking out credit, or allowing another person to use accounts in their name.

• Loans or credit cards taken out under pressure
• Rent, council tax or household bills left unpaid by an abusive partner
• Debt built up through control of bank cards or online accounts
• Being forced to pay for things for someone else
• Joint debts after leaving an abusive relationship

Gateway M40 can help people review their debts, understand their options, speak to creditors where appropriate, and work towards a manageable way forward.

Trust fund and grant support

Leaving abuse or rebuilding after abuse can create urgent financial pressure. We may be able to support applications for trust funds, hardship grants or practical help with essential items.

This could include help towards:

Furniture and white goods
Clothing and children's items
Energy costs
Emergency essentials
Moving or resettlement needs

Advocacy support

Sometimes people need someone to stand alongside them. Gateway M40 can provide advocacy support to help people communicate with organisations and understand next steps.

Housing providers

Benefit agencies

Creditors

Local authority services

Solicitors or legal services

Specialist support agencies

We can help people prepare information, explain their circumstances clearly, and make sure their voice is heard.

Befriending and emotional support

Rebuilding life after abuse can feel lonely and overwhelming. Our befriending support offers a safe, friendly connection for people who may feel isolated, anxious or unsure where to turn.

This support is not counselling, but it can provide encouragement, regular contact and a reminder that the person is not alone.

Signposting to specialist services

Gateway M40 can help connect people with other specialist services where needed.

Domestic abuse charities
Legal advice
Housing support
Mental health services
Police or safeguarding support
Children and family support
Crisis services

Where a situation is urgent or unsafe, we will help identify the most appropriate emergency or specialist support.

Important Safety Message

Support for people affected by domestic abuse, coercive control and financial harm