In a small town in eastern Victoria resides an 80-year-old individual we’ll refer to as “Liam.” Overwhelmed by a profound sense of solitude, Liam finds himself living far away from his loved ones. With cherished family members scattered across the UK, US, and Ireland, the COVID-19 pandemic rendered his reunion plans indefinitely postponed. However, an unexpected turn of events brought him face-to-face with adversity.
Recently, Liam experienced a devastating aggravated robbery that targeted his home and resulted in the loss of his life savings—$20,000 set aside for a much-anticipated overseas trip. Crushed by this sudden loss, he found himself grappling with the heartbreaking notion of never seeing his family again or returning to his Irish roots.
Amidst the despair, a glimmer of hope emerged. At YourLawyer, our dedicated team recognised the significance of family bonds and the profound impact a reunion could have on Liam’s life. We made a heartfelt application on his behalf to the Victorian Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT), determined to restore his dream.
We are overjoyed to share that our endeavours bore fruit. Although property is not covered under the scheme, within a month of the application being filed, VOCAT acknowledged the emotional toll inflicted upon Liam and recognized the immense value of reconnecting with his beloved family. In a heart-warming turn of events, VOCAT awarded him $14,000 toward his journey—a symbolic gesture empowering Liam to embrace the support he deeply yearned for and to revisit his cherished Irish homeland once more.
With renewed optimism, Liam is now meticulously planning a six-month sojourn overseas. This meaningful journey will not only provide him with the much-needed solace and care from his family but also gift him with unforgettable memories to treasure.
At YourLawyer, we hold steadfastly to the belief that compassion and advocacy can transform lives. We remain committed to standing alongside those in need, fighting for justice, and helping dreams flourish.
If you or someone you know has experienced a similar situation, we are here to help. Contact us today to explore how we can assist you in navigating the path toward healing, support, and realising your dreams.
