I

was carrying my two-month-old baby in my arms when I was attacked by my husband in the presence of my mother-in-law. They were both intoxicated and it wasn’t the first time. I called the police as I knew I had to leave. I was scared and I felt very unsafe.

The police agreed that it was best for me to leave but they advised that I left the baby behind as she was asleep at the time. This made me very unhappy and anxious. I knew instinctively that I shouldn’t leave my baby behind but with everything that was going on, I thought it was best to follow the advice of the authorities.

After I left, my husband refused to give me access to my baby despite my numerous attempts to get her back. He said I was a drug addict and cannot be trusted with a child. I had used substances recreationally in the past. We had done together, but I wasn’t an addict. At least I didn’t think so. But I knew he was going to use this against me.

I believe he was trying to send me into a downward spiral of substance abuse, by refusing me access to my child. I was worried that I would fall into bad habits and start bingeing to cope. In desperation, I contacted The Haven Wolverhampton via Live Chat on their website.

I was assessed by a Substance Misuse Caseworker at The Haven Wolverhampton and a plan was put in place to keep me on the right track. We agreed that I would take random drug tests which would not only keep me motivated but also provide evidence to prove my innocence in court. These tests were fully funded by The Haven Wolverhampton. I was randomly tested for cocaine, cannabis, and opiates. Each time, negative results were produced for all three substances.

At my custody hearing, my solicitor was able to present a spreadsheet with my drug test results, as well as a supporting letter from my case worker. I was very nervous, but my case worker had been very supportive, and she
helped me to stay positive and hopeful. Then the news came – I was getting my baby back!

I have The Haven Wolverhampton to thank for this victory. I don’t think the judge would have ruled in my favour without evidence that I had been drug-free. I am extremely grateful for the support that I received from The Haven Wolverhampton.

I have decided to continue taking random drug tests to keep me on track and to support any further court cases or support plans.

Rosie’s name has been changed to protect her identity. Images are for illustration purposes only.