1. Domestic Abuse Inclusion network meeting
Unity Harding
Educational Psychologist

2. WHAT IS DOMESTIC ABUSE

3. How many children ?
1 in 4 women in England and Wales experience domestic violence in their lifetimes
8.5% women and 4.5% men reported domestic violence in a year (Crime Survey of England and Wales, 2013/14)
On average, a woman is assaulted 35 times before her first call to the police (Jaffe, 1982)
25% of children had witnessed DV at least once between parents and 5% (or 1 child in each class) on multiple occasions (NSPCC prevalence study in Cawson, 2011)
Links between DA and child maltreatment – in studies since 70s 65-77% of households where women subject to DA children are also physically maltreated (Office for National Stats)

4. Maddy’s story

5. Impact on children
Obviously, it is very upsetting for children to see one of their parents (or partners) abusing, attacking or controlling the other.
Younger children may become anxious. They may complain of tummy-aches or start to wet their bed. They may find it difficult to sleep, have temper tantrums and start to behave as if they are much younger than they are. They may also find it difficult to separate from their abused parent when they start nursery or school.
Older children react differently. Boys seem to express their distress much more outwardly, for example by becoming aggressive and disobedient. Sometimes, they start to use violence to try and solve problems, and may copy the behaviour they see within the family. Older boys may play truant and start to use alcohol or drugs (both of which are a common way of trying to block out disturbing experiences and memories).
Girls are more likely to keep their distress inside. They may become withdrawn from other people, and become anxious or depressed. They may think badly of themselves and complain of vague physical symptoms. They are more likely to have an eating disorder, or to harm themselves by taking overdoses or cutting themselves. They are also more likely to choose an abusive partner themselves.
Children of any age can develop symptoms of what is called 'Post-traumatic Stress Disorder'. They may get nightmares, flashbacks, become very jumpy, and have headaches and physical pains.
Children dealing with domestic violence and abuse often do badly at school. Their frightening experiences at home make it difficult to concentrate in school, and if they are worried about their abused parent, they may refuse to go to school.

6. Schools Recognise DA as a problem
Be aware of the impact of DA on development
Identify those children who may be experiencing it
Respond
As an organisation to the hidden and known DA
To children who have or are experiencing DA
To parents
Remember to support staff and yourselves too

7. How can schools respond?
Domestic abuse is a safeguarding issue
Ensure all school staff are aware and trained to understand and recognise signs – could domestic abuse explain the changes or difficulties for this child?
Be prepared to listen to parents and children - why this helps …
Safety is key – what can you do to maximise feelings of safety?
How do you model and promote respectful relationships?
Support for parents makes a difference for the child
What you use for emotional difficulties, trauma, attachment all may be relevant when a child needs active intervention

8. Thank you uharding@northamptonshire.gov.uk