We’re raising awareness of different forms of abuse over 16 days. Why? Because we can’t address what we don’t talk about and we want everyone to feel safe and supported to seek help if they need it.
We want to start meaningful conversations and highlight the help available to put a stop to abuse, of all kinds, both now and in the future.
Today we’re focusing on the impact of domestic abuse on children and young people.
The facts
- One in seven young people under the age of 18 will have lived with domestic violence during childhood.
- In 2017, 61.7% of women in refuges had children under the age of 18 with them.
- Researched published by Cafcass showed that between 2016 and 2017 more than two thirds of 216 child contact cases involved allegations of domestic abuse.
Young people witness abuse or being a victim of violence can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Education can also be disrupted.
Every child should be safe at home. And there are lots of charities that exist to support children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse. These include:
- Child Witness to Violence Project
- Women’s Aid
- Safe Lives
- NSPCC
- Action for Children
- Women’s Aid’s The Hideout
If you’re a resident and would like to speak to our Community Safety team, call us on 0300 123 1 567. A member of the team will be in touch with you within 24 hours. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to speak to someone elsewhere, contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.
If you’re in immediate danger, please call 999.
