Recent research has shown that a man who abuses his partner is also likely to abuse the children too, although may be many years before this abuse comes to light.

Even if the children are not directly abused they will be suffering too due to-

Living in a tense atmosphere
Knowing their mother is frightened or unhappy
Witnessing violence
Worried that their mother may die
Thinking it is their fault
Being unable to protect their mother
Not wanting to bring friends home
Not being allowed to visit grandparents
Seeing their pets hurt or toys broken

Through fear they are unlikely to tell friends or teachers what happens at home.

They may have some noticeable problems like bed wetting, nightmares, aggressive behaviour, extreme shyness, difficulty concentrating at school, destroying toys, bullying, sleep problems, eating disorders, being cruel to smaller children or animals, sexist attitudes.

We are told that divorce is bad for children, but most child psychologists now agree that living with domestic violence is worse.  It can cause long-term problems but if the mother moves her children from the situation early enough they can and will recover.

Our team of playworkers provide

A homework club for school age children

Play sessions in the refuge and drop-in centre

Swimming lessons

Crèche and play sessions for pre-school children

Help and advice for mothers

Liaison with schools and health visitors etc….