relief
beyond
crisis
Relief Beyond Crisis is a microfinance facility that provides support for women on the NSW Central Coast who have recently removed themselves from Domestic Violence (DV) situations, or are looking to do so but are unable to access appropriate support or assistance as they may earn above the criteria needed to gain access to financial assistance.
PURPOSE
Relief Beyond Crisis is a Micro Finance facility that provides support for women on the NSW Central Coast who have recently removed themselves from Domestic Violence (DV) situations, or are looking to do so but are unable to access appropriate support or assistance as they may earn above the criteria needed to gain access to funding to assist them, Relief Beyond Crisis can also assist Women going through or recovering from DV, in getting back on their feet and out of their current situation so they may feel confident in re-establishing their lives. Allowing them to start over again in a safe environment where they feel comfortable.
CRITERIA
Clients needing the assistance will be employed and meet minimum thresholds. As a guide, clients must be earning above $45,000 net without dependents, $60,000 net with dependents. The inability to meet short term financial support is a key factor influencing a person’s ability to leave a DV situation. Survivors currently feel that they have no support with financial assistance to get themselves out of the situation they are currently in or have been in. Clients must be referred by an appropriate support service and have the support of a social/case worker. We will need to see documentation such as a minimum three months bank statement details, four pay slips, proof of where they are currently living and how much they are paying, if this cannot be provided a support letter from the service that referred them onto us, plus details of any other commitments they may have e.g. credit card, personal loan, Afterpay etc..
ASSESSMENT
Clients will be assessed by the Relief Beyond Crisis, Loan Management Administrator from Community SOS. The interview will take approximately 1-2 hours depending on the client’s circumstances. We will complete a budget to work out what the client is able to afford and how much funding the client may need to be in a position where they will be feeling safe and comfortable. The above interview is an approximate as each case and client is different so this is just a guide, the client will not be rushed, the interview is to ensure the client feels they are being supported and we understand their needs. Each client is unique, and our aim is make each and every person coming in for an interview feel comfortable, at ease, and in control of a major decision and turning point in their lives, we want everyone to be able to say they feel supported.
EXAMPLES OF LOAN USE
Eligible clients are able to borrow up to $5,000, interest free over 3 years without incurring any fees. As a further support, loan recipients will receive a 15% discount of what was borrowed on the loan as a non repayable gift. Examples of loans could be: Small motor vehicle, furniture, white goods, bond for new property, removal costs, storage costs, motor vehicle costs. Other costs will be considered and can be discussed at interview, as we understand each client will have differing needs. The Relief Beyond crisis assistance cannot be used to pay back a financial institution loan, e.g. credit cards, personal loan. Family loans that have assisted the client in removing themselves from DV will be considered case by case.