I’m scared for my sister’s safety

DEAR DEIDRE: I’m so worried for my sister’s safety since she split with her controlling and abusive husband.

My sister’s 38, her ex is 40 and they have three kids. He sent her a letter demanding to see the children more, saying that if she agrees he’ll help more financially.

But he dropped off the children recently and when my sister went to get their belongings from the car he assaulted her, grabbing her by the hair and driving down the road while she was half in and half out of the car.

I’m so scared she’s going to end up being one of the many women who are seriously assaulted or killed by an ex.

He also says he won’t pay for their children’s care on the days he doesn’t see them, and won’t help with the mortgage since he no longer lives in the family home.

DEIDRE SAYS: I share your concerns. If she’s in immediate danger she must call the police.

My support pack Abusive Partner? has information on organisations who can help.

Your sister’s ex can’t just pick and choose when he pays maintenance or the mortgage.

He has a legal obligation to provide financially for his children whether he sees them regularly or not.

If he refuses to pay, your sister can call the Child Maintenance Service (0800 171 2345) to ask for their advice on this.

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