My child has been affected by domestic abuse

Name: RCJ Advice
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Children who have seen domestic abuse at home can be seriously affected by it – even if they haven’t been physically harmed themselves.

Every child is different, but the signs that something’s wrong can include:

You’ve probably tried your best to protect your children from abuse and harm.

Children need to feel safe – and there’s help available for you if you want to get out of an abusive relationship.

A safe, stable and supportive environment with one parent is better than an abusive one with two.

You can help your child by:

talking to them about what is happening so they don’t feel they’re carrying a shameful secret
providing time and space for them talk about their hopes and feelings
reassuring them that the situation isn’t their fault
explaining that abuse is wrong and has no place in healthy relationships
encouraging and praising them regularly to give their self-confidence a boost
finding another trusted person, counsellor or professional to give them support

Childline 0800 1111 or 1-2-1 online chat with a counsellor. Free confidential advice and support for children and young people.

The Hideout. Website to help children and young people understand and get over domestic abuse.

NSPCC 0808 800 5000. Free advice and support from professional counsellors if you’re worried about your child.

Refuge offers support and advice for women and children affected by domestic abuse.

Women’s Aid. Information, advice and live chat with trained support workers for women and children survivors of domestic abuse.

I want to leave an abusive relationship