A mother in Fermanagh lives in fear from her former partner despite his probation status and restraining order. She states he drives past her workplace repeatedly to intimidate her.

She entered the relationship over 15 years ago as a single parent. The partner became controlling and physically abusive after she became pregnant. The abuse lasted 12 years, including marriage. She attempted to leave four times before succeeding.

Her ex-partner faced prosecution in 2024 under the Malicious Communications Act, aggravated by domestic abuse. A court issued a restraining order and fine. He breached it three days before expiry by attempting to contact her on social media.

Prosecutors charged him again for the breach. He began a two-month probation period as a result. No suspended sentence was imposed.

She reports isolation after leaving, with no family support and others turned against her. Her children fear their father and have no contact. The ex-partner used access to the children for control.

Rural conditions in Fermanagh aid isolation, she states. Police require better training on coercive control. She supports a public domestic abuse register to check partners and strengthen protections beyond current measures.

Women's Aid provided support for eight years, which she credits with enabling her escape.