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Many children will have experienced abuse themselves
or may have witnessed the abuse of their mother or siblings, and whether
their experience of the abuse is direct or indirect it will leave them
feeling scared and confused. It is now widely recognised that even if
children don’t experience the violence directly - they will be
affected by it.
Children respond to their experiences in many different ways. Many children
do not show any obvious signs in their behaviour, but it is unrealistic
to think they have not been affected at all. Children may arrive at
the refuge therefore, feeling scared and confused, and it can be a difficult
time with lots of change, having left behind friends, family, their
favourite toys and pets etc. However it is also important to recognise
that leaving is also important in helping children overcome the effects
of the violence. It is important that they are given the chance to talk
about their experiences and come to terms with what has happened in
order to enable them to move forward in their lives and learn to build
positive relationships.
Most refuges have specialized children’s workers who will offer
support and advice relating to you and your children.
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