The effects on babies and very young children exposed to domestic violence can be serious and can include:

• Inability to develop secure attachments to their carers
• “Failure to thrive” in extreme cases
• Developmental regression (especially in toileting and language development)
• Sleep disturbances
• Behavioural difficulties / emotional distress  

The effects on children

The effects of domestic violence on a child will vary, as it will depend on their age, gender, maturity, personality and family circumstances. However, many children affected by domestic violence report that they feel:

• Stress
• Confusion
• Lack of trust
• Guilt
• Isolation
• Shame
• Anger
• Loss of confidence
• Anxiety

As a result of living with or witnessing domestic abuse children or young people may:

• Exhibit signs of physical abuse (either inflicted by self or others)
• Become a victim or perpetrator of bullying
• Present violent and disruptive behaviour
• Experience difficulty in concentrating on school work
• Focus on school and attaining good results as a way of blocking out difficulties at home
• Experience difficulty in making friends at school
• Become withdrawn
• Use drugs or alcohol as a way of escaping from their problems
• Have poor or irregular school attendance
• Run away as a way of escaping from problems at home
• Become involved in inappropriate or exploitative sexual relationships in an attempt to find comfort and security
• Develop an eating disorder

The indicators above are not conclusive evidence that a child is affected by domestic violence but the presence of one or more should alert staff to the possibility that domestic violence may be the root cause.

Parents have a duty to ensure that their child attends school regularly. Poor attendance can be one of the first signs that a child is experiencing abuse or neglect as result of Domestic Violence. It is important that any concerns about absence are referred to the home school liaison worker (if your school has one) and the educational social worker.

If you suspect or know that a child or young person is being abused, either directly or indirectly, such as witnessing the abuse of their parent, you should report the matter to the designated child protection officer who will make the appropriate referrals.

Source: Home Office ( Domestic Violence and Children)

"CHILD ABUSE by a MALE parent is 15 times more likely to occur in a home where Domestic Violence/Abuse is present…"