Domestic abuse can have a devastating impact on the victims and their families, with children and young people at risk of serious harm to both their emotional and physical health.
We spoke with Laura Tomsa, one of our Domestic Abuse Specialist Consultants, to discuss how we support victims of domestic abuse.
Why support for victims of domestic abuse is so important
The effects of witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse can be traumatic, with victims often experiencing both physical and mental health problems as a result. Children and young people’s experiences are no exception to this. That’s why services and support for those affected are so crucial.
Support for children and young people around their experiences of domestic abuse is vital. It’s so important that we provide a safe space for them to explore their thoughts and feelings and support them from the trauma that they have experienced.
Laura Tomsa
Domestic Abuse Specialist Consultant, Barnardos
“If they don’t have access to support, there is an increased risk of them experiencing mental health difficulties later [on in] life and they are at greater risk of becoming involved in an abusive relationship themselves. It’s therefore essential that services are available in a timely manner [and are] delivering trauma-informed support”, added Laura.
Direct support for children, young people, and their families
Every child will be affected differently by the trauma of domestic abuse. The impacts vary between age groups and experiences, meaning support must be tailored to the needs of each young person. That’s why we provide direct support for those impacted, as Laura explains:
“We provide direct support for children and young people across the nation. This can include one on one support and group-based support”, said Laura.
Support is tailored to the young persons’ individual needs, it’s child centred and flexible.
Laura Tomsa
Domestic Abuse Specialist Consultant, Barnardos
“Support can take place in a variety of settings, from schools to communities, to in our centres. Again, it’s what works best for that young person”, emphasised Laura.
“We also provide support for the wider family, recognising the importance of a whole family approach to supporting children, young people and families impacted by domestic abuse.”
“In addition to the direct support, we also work with schools to look at what they can put in place to support children and young people that are victims of domestic abuse – ensuring that all professionals are responding appropriately to their needs”, added Laura.
I found it really useful having someone to talk to, it helped me to understand everything that was going on and recognise it wasn’t my fault. I now know where to go to for support in the future.
Young person, 14
Young person who accessed our Opening Closed Doors Service
Since the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, children that have been exposed to domestic abuse are now recognised as victims of domestic abuse in their own right, rather than just witnesses.
What should I do if I notice signs of domestic abuse or I’m worried about a child?
If you are worried a child may be experiencing domestic abuse, or a child reveals abuse, it is important that you share that concern. The information you have may help professionals to build a picture of what the child is experiencing and help them. You can find more information about the signs and indicators a young person may be experiencing domestic abuse here.
If you are concerned that a child may be at imminent risk of domestic abuse, always call 999 immediately.
If you are concerned that a young person could be at non-immediate risk, there are services you can contact for support:
Refuge
Refuge is the largest domestic abuse organisation in the UK. Contact them online, or call their freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000247.
Childline
Childline offers free, confidential advice and support to all children, whatever your worry. Contact them online or on their freephone on 0800 1111.
Live Fear Free
Live Fear Free provides help and advice about violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence. Contact them online, call their freephone 0808 80 10 800, or text 07860077333.
Effects of domestic abuse on children
Learn more about domestic abuse, its effect on children, how to recognise the signs of abuse, and what to do if a young person reveals abuse from our specialists.
Tips for talking to children about their safety and wellbeing
Read these five tips from our experts to help prepare you for speaking to your child about concerns you have for their safety and wellbeing.
Get help if you're worried about a child
Find out where to get emergency help for yourself or for someone else, and other organisations you can reach out to for support.