Domestic abuse is defined by the Home Office as …

• Behaviour of a person (“A”) towards another person (“B”) is “domestic abuse” if A and B are each aged 16 or over and are personally connected to each other, and the behaviour is abusive. Behaviour is “abusive” if it consists of any of the following:

• physical or sexual abuse
• violent or threatening behaviour
• controlling or coercive behaviour
• economic abuse
• psychological, emotional or other abuse.

The Act also recognises children (under 18) as victims of domestic abuse in their own right if they see or hear, or experience the effects of, the abuse, and is related to A or B.

Every year an estimated two million people experience domestic abuse in the UK and victims are more likely to be women than men. Men and women experience domestic abuse differently due to the gendered nature of the crime. Therefore it is important wherever possible to signpost specifically for female, male, transgender and non-binary support services.

One in five children in the UK experience domestic abuse and it is we estimated that at least one child in every reception school class has been living with abuse for their whole life. Understanding the full range of experiences within the household is vital to supporting children affected by Domestic Abuse. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as being exposed to domestic abuse or substance misuse in the home, have been found to have an impact on long term health and behavioural outcomes, and a combination of ACEs can increase this risk even further. In a study by Public Health Wales those with four or more ACEs were 14 times more likely to have been a victim of violence over the last 12 months, compared to those with no ACEs.

Supporting children living with domestic violence

One in five children in the UK experience domestic abuse and for them life outcomes are typically poorer.  Children who witness violence and/or are victims of abuse are likely to be anxious, fearful and depressed.  They may show bursts of aggression, appear unnaturally quiet or be insecurely attached to their primary caregiver. Children who experience violence may have poor sleep patterns and delayed language skills.  These factors impact on all aspects of children’s development ultimately affecting their long term educational attainment.  Whilst working with children and families you can consider how you build respectful, empathetic and honest relationships with parents and children, which enables victims to disclose abuse and seek support.

Promoting equality of opportunity in boys and girls play; challenging stereotypical attitudes and behaviours

All children develop a sense of who they are from other people and the wider world.  Children and their families are continually exposed to gender bias through the media and advertising.  By promoting gender equity you can challenge stereotypes you may see in children’s play. From early on girls and boys should learn to see themselves as equals.  This includes developing good self-esteem and self-efficacy, respect for each other and effective conflict resolution strategies. Having good male and female adult role models who show respect and concern for each other and children is essential.  Practitioners can help children by being a safe, consistent and responsive adult.