Concerned about a child or young person? Call 0345 603 7627

My child has witnessed Domestic Abuse

 

 

 

 

Around 1 in 5 children            

have been exposed to

domestic abuse.

 

 

All children witnessing domestic violence are experiencing emotional abuse.

 

Children will react in different ways to being brought up in a home where there is violence, and things such as age, gender, culture and personality will all play a part on how they're affected.

 

They may feel they are to blame, may feel angry, guilty, insecure, alone, frightened, powerless, or confused. They may have mixed feelings, both towards the abuser, and towards the non-abusing parent.  

 

Violence can interfere with your child/ren's lives in other ways. They may feel unable to invite friends round (or may be prevented from doing so) out of shame, fear, or concern about what their friends may see.

 

They may feel guilty, and think the violence is their fault, or that they ought to be able to stop it in some way.

 

Worry, disturbed sleep and lack of concentration can all affect schoolwork. If you're worried about your child, there is help available. 

 

 

Where can I get help?

 

To make a disclosure of domestic violence either for yourself or someone else contact Essex Police’s Domestic Abuse Central Referral Unit: 101 extension 180340. Or Essex Police's domestic abuse non-emergency number 0800 358 0351.

 

Further information and support