In the first nine months of this year, there were 6,857 domestic abuse incidents with 3,527 children or young people involved. Of these, 360 were exposed to the violence three or more times and 30, five or more times. Importantly, the reporting of domestic abuse incidents has increased by 21 per cent across West Mercia in the last four years.
Diana Fulbrook, independent chairman of Worcestershire Safeguarding Children Board, said: “The impact of domestic abuse on children and young people is a priority area for the board because of the harm we know it causes. “We need to be vigilant about spotting those most at risk so we can make sure they receive the help and support they need to feel safe.”
Children and young people are completely dependent on the adults around them and if they do not feel safe in their own homes this can have serious physical and emotional effects.
For further information about the Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse please contact Martin Lakeman on 01905 822357.
To call in confidence about domestic abuse call 0800 980 3331.
