Stories
We provide practical help when it’s needed most.
The world can be a tough place when you are unwell and dealing with mental illness, or you’re impacted by trauma of homelessness or family violence, and facing complex personal issues.
It can be even more challenging if you are trying to deal with the stress and complexity of courts and the legal systems.
Each year, hundreds of vulnerable or disadvantaged Western Australians look to us for expert advice and representation in the legal system, and for expert social services support and guidance.
Our clients are not defined by their challenges. They are people who have sought and found help with difficult situations, and their stories may be similar to yours.
Our Clients Matter
We support thousands of people every year – ensuring vulnerable people, and particularly people experiencing mental illness or impacted by the trauma of family violence, receive high-quality advice, advocacy and legal representation.
Ebony’s Story
Heavily pregnant with her unborn son, Ebony left her husband due to the extensive domestic violence she had suffered at his hands. After the separation, Ebony was living alone with her newborn whilst experiencing severe post-natal depression. Adding to her stress, Ebony’s ex-husband’s family began harassing her, attending the home at all hours of the day and night as well as sending the police to her home.
Casey’s Story
Casey was frightened of going to jail when she was first referred to Ruah Legal Services. Despite having no previous criminal history, the drug possession offence was serious, and she was at risk of imprisonment.
Phil’s Story
Phil has a diagnosis of Paranoid Schizophrenia, often experiencing psychosis as a result. Phil was charged with aggravated home burglary, threatening to kill and assault of a public officer.
Learn More
Read more about Ruah Legal Services and the Mental Health Law Centre in our annual reports. From 2020-21, we report on our operations as ‘One Ruah’ reflecting our merger with Ruah Community Services in 2019 and the expansion of our integrated legal and non-legal support to families.
Downloads
RUAH 2022-23 Annual Report
RUAH 2021-22 Annual Report
RUAH 2020-21 Annual Report
MHLC 2019-20 Annual Report
MHLC 2018-19 Annual Report
MHLC 2017-18 Annual Report
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