Alice Keiver is a sensitive girl, growing up in one of the roughest parts of North London. As the daughter of an alcoholic mother, and niece of an abusive uncle, she dreams of escaping her surroundings. Alice's father, Jack Keiver, works hard to provide for his family. But his hopes are dashed each time he returns home to find the money-jar raided and his wife drunk. And Alice's Aunt spends her days nursing the injuries inflicted by her cruel husband Jimmy – but this time he's pushed the family too far and they're not going to let him get away with it.