Overview
Hear from Hannah Leat, District Manager from Hampshire Children’s Services, as she talks about the need for a holistic approach to safeguarding children who are victims of domestic abuse within a whole family context.
Children are Victims too
Domestic abuse can take many forms and encompasses a range of abusive and coercive behaviours that can occur in all types of relationships. Statutory and voluntary sector services working with children and adults require a nuanced understanding of abusers’ use of controlling and coercive behaviours, as well as the pervasive fear experienced by victims – both adults and children. As professionals, it is crucial for our responses to be informed by a comprehensive understanding of domestic abuse, clearly identifying the source of harm and detailing the behaviours of the abuser, alongside the impact on all affected individuals. Both adults and children involved are direct victims who are entitled to support.
Children do not come to services alone; they are part of families. They have relationships with their parents, grandparents and wider networks, as well as with siblings and stepsiblings who they might not live with. Our responses must be tailored to reflect each child’s understanding of what ‘family’ means for them. Children may have strong or complicated feelings about both their abusive and non-abusive parents/carers. They may be traumatised by the abuse and living in a state of chronic fear and anxiety.
Taking A Whole Family Approach
A holistic whole family approach does not separate the abusive behaviours of the parent from the impact on children. It takes into account the parenting of the abuser, the repercussions of that abuse on the non-abusive parent, and their ability to care for the children. By addressing the whole family unit, we can provide direct and specialist support for both adult and child victims, while also offering tailored interventions for those who cause harm. This approach focuses on behaviour change and accountability, while prioritising the safety of both child and adult victims/survivors.
Safeguarding children who are victims of domestic abuse is inherently complex and underscores the need for a whole family approach. Effective safeguarding practice involves collaboration across a wide range of services. Continuous development of our knowledge, skills and confidence is essential for multi-agency professionals working with children and families.
Risks of Post-Separation Abuse
Listen to our colleague from Stop Domestic Abuse discussing post-separation abuse. Leaving an abusive partner does not always mean the abuse stops and it can escalate. Learn what post-separation abuse is, the risks associated with it, how to recognise post-separation abuse and importantly how to support victims.
The Impact of Domestic Abuse on Children
Domestic abuse is a consistent cross-cutting theme in the strategic priorities and business plan of the HSCP. Children are negatively impacted and harmed by domestic abuse and as an adverse childhood experience (ACE), it has long-lasting implications for their wellbeing both during childhood and into adulthood.
Read more on the Impact of domestic abuse on children.