Studies show that in 90% of cases, children are present in the home during incidents of domestic abuse.

CHILDREN ARE ALWAYS AT RISK

•  they may be witnesses;
•  they may become involved in the abuse when seeking to protect their mother;
•  they may become victims – research shows a link between domestic abuse and the physical and sexual abuse of children;
•  they may be threatened in order to control their mother's actions and prevent disclosure;
•  even when none of the above apply, the effects on children living in situations of domestic abuse are profound - children don't have to 'see' it to be affected by it;
•  all concerns about children should be recorded.

Possible effects may be:

• feelings of anger, guilt, fear and isolation;
•  anxiety, depression and withdrawal;
•  asthma, bedwetting and eczema;
•  not allowed to see family or friends;
•  possessions and pets damaged;
•  disruption to schooling;
•  displays of violence.