Domestic violence

Hundreds of thousands of children in the UK live with domestic violence.

When Jack thinks about his mum and dad, all he ever sees is them hurting each other. No matter how hard he tries to shut it out. Seven years of witnessing domestic violence has left Jack terrified and emotionally-scarred.

Now Jack's local Barnardo's project is providing him with a safe haven where he is being protected, nurtured and given a new life.

Could you make a donation to keep children like Jack safe?

Read Jack's story.

Domestic violence and children - the issue

There are many children like Jack living in families where domestic violence blights their lives. Domestic violence is any violent or abusive behaviour; whether physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial – actual or threatened – used by one person to control or dominate another with whom they have, or have had, a relationship.

There is substantial evidence that witnessing domestic violence is harmful to children. Children affected by domestic violence often experience problems at school, and are more likely to get involved in street and playground violence. Other common difficulties include increased anxiety, headaches, stomach aches, asthma, stuttering and symptoms of post traumatic stress. Children who have been exposed to domestic violence are more likely than other children to be referred to social services because of mental health or other problems.

Make a crucial difference to vulnerable children like Jack who live in constant fear of domestic violence today. Make a donation.

How Barnardo's projects help

Of 361 Barnardo’s projects across the UK, three quarters report that domestic violence is an issue in their work. We run specialist projects that offer comprehensive support to families, helping abused parents to keep themselves and their children safe, supporting children and families to understand their experiences and providing information for other professionals to ensure that domestic violence services can respond to the needs of vulnerable children.

Find out more about Barnardo's projects that help children like Jack.