Here is the scenario
Person 1 ends a 6-year abusive relationship with Person 2. Person 1 has been subject to violence, coercive behaviour, suicidal behaviour, manipulation, bullying and financial theft and sees the end of the relationship as the only positive action.
Person 1 and Person 2 are not married but do have a 3-year-old child together.
Person 1 makes provision for change, both in the family home and offering to pay for local accommodation to keep the child in routine and in a familiar environment.
Person 2 ignores offer of consistency and relocates 180 miles away from the family home with no provision for change. Person 1 openly disagrees with this approach as its not in the child’s best interest.
Person 2 denies Person 1 access to see and speak with the child. Person 1 starts court proceedings as they can see no other way forward.
Person 2 falsely accuses Person 1 of substance abuse and serious sexual assault resulting in delays to court proceedings. Person 2 uses the process to continue abusing Person 1.
Person 1 travels every weekend to see the child, up to 800 miles per weekend simply to spend time with the child. Person 1 pays for overnight accommodation, travel costs and has been forced to pay additional maintenance for the child. Person 1 currently pays over £2000 per month to see and maintain the child. Person 2 has resigned from their job and is currently living off benefits and the child’s maintenance.
Person 2 refuses to help Person 1 in any way with travel, even though they have a car.
Person 2 limits the time Person 1 can speak to the child to a very short call per day, often hanging up on Person 1 as they do not want to facilitate the call. Person 2 limits Person 1 to 10% access to the child even though they confirm Person 1 is a good parent.
Person 1 continues to travel and support the child. Person 1 consoles the child daily as the child does not want to live with Person 2. The child regularly asks Person 2 to return her home to Person 1. Person 2 ignores the need of the child and tells the child that we do not talk about Person 1.
Person 1 remains positive and looks to build a better future for the child. Person 2 continues to tarnish, accuse, and abuse Person 1.
Do you have any advice for Person 1 or Person 2?