The effect of domestic violence on children is profound. It causes immense long term harm.

When a woman is abused, her children will be damaged. Some will be physically injured, either directly abused, or hurt helping their parent. Their emotional, psychological and educational development will be affected. They feel the tension, hear the fighting and see the injuries caused.

They are also victims.

Parents in a violent relationship aren’t a good example of how to act or react in a relationship. The children may grow up unable to recognise a healthy relationship, may not know how to act appropriately and may be at future risk.

Domestic violence damages all aspects of the child's well-being; self esteem, self image, health, behaviour and ability to socialise. It harms the relationship between mother and children and undermines and impairs the ability to parent. Domestic violence in childhood affects children's attitudes to violence, parenting, marriage and relationships with a partner. And so the cycle continues.

If you are a child or young person affected by domestic violence click here.