Domestic Abuse

Hopefully you get enough care and love to grow up into a happy and healthy adult. But some people aren't so lucky and could experience domestic abuse or violence - either aimed towards them or towards one of their parents/carers.

Forms of abuse

There are five different kinds of abuse which you might encounter:

Bullying: this is when someone tries to intimidate you - e.g. being called names, teased, having your possessions taken.
Physical: this is when you are harmed physically - e.g. being kicked or punched.
Sexual: this is when you are unwillingly forced to have sex, or someone touches you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Emotional: this is when you are made to feel bad or depressed - e.g. being criticised all the time or shouted at.
Neglect: this is when you are not being looked after or supervised properly - e.g. when you don't get enough food or don't have clothes to keep you warm.

If you, your parents or siblings are treated badly at home, it can be very upsetting and it can make you feel frightened, angry, alone, guilty or unloved.

Signs of abuse

These are symptoms to look out for, if you suspect that someone is being abused:

They become quiet and withdrawn.
They have injuries they can't explain.
They don't want to undress for PE.
They don't like being touched.
They put themselves down.

Being abused

If you are being abused:

Remember that it's not your fault - the person who's abused you is to blame.
Remember that you have the right to feel safe at home.
Tell someone you can trust, like a parent/carer, teacher or friend.
Don't suffer in silence, even if you might be worried if you tell.

If someone you know is being abused:

If someone you know e.g. is being abused in your home, keep safe. Find a place in the house you can go to when things get hard.
Tell someone you can trust, like a teacher or a friend, or call a helpline.
Try to get your parent/carer to seek help, and point out the contact numbers below.

Don't suffer in silence

Abuse should never be tolerated. There are organisations that can help stop abuse and give support:

Domestic Abuse

Forms of abuse

Signs of abuse

Being abused

Don't suffer in silence

Related External Links: