Restoring dignity and independence through our Health Enhancing Legal Pathways (HELP) HJP Program - Barwon Community Legal Service

Restoring dignity and independence through our Health Enhancing Legal Pathways (HELP) HJP Program

Terry and Robin’s Story

Our HELP Program is a health justice partnership that provides early intervention legal assistance to patients experiencing disadvantage in trusted health settings across the Barwon region.

We partner with all our major health services in our region to deliver this service and deliver our program in partnership with Barwon Health, Colac Area Health, Hesse Rural Health, Great Ocean Road Health, and Bellarine Community Health.

Recently we assisted Terry and Robin to restore dignity and independence through our HELP Program.

Terry, an 80-year-old, and their partner Robin found themselves in an abusive situation, feeling trapped in their home after granting a family member financial Power of Attorney. The relative misused this power, took control of their assets, and applied for guardianship over Robin without their knowledge. Terry managed to escape and was taken to hospital, where a social worker referred them to our HELP lawyer.

Working together, they were able to recover Terry’s phone, car, and possessions. Legal intervention resulted in Family Violence Intervention Orders and police reports against the abusive relative. We also represented Terry in VCAT proceedings, ensuring independent management of Robin’s affairs. Ultimately, the HJP partnership helped Terry and Robin move into a retirement home of their choice, allowing them to regain control of their lives.

To find out more about our HELP program contact our office on 1300 430 599.

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