Leaving a violent home is a stressful time for both parents and their children. Some children 'act out' their distress with difficult and sometimes aggressive behaviour leaving mothers feeling like they can't cope.
Be reassured that this is not unusual and that this behaviour usually settles down fairly quickly with good support.
Children who have left violent homes need understanding and support. This can be difficult to offer when there are so many other practical and emotional demands on your time and energy.
There are a number of agencies who can help support you and your child including:
Child Guidance which you can find out about from your GP or health visitor.
Local Family Service Units - They offer a wide range of services for you and your children including counselling and support groups for children. Please note they are not available everywhere throughout the UK. You can find out if there is a Family Service Unit in your local area by
looking in your local phone book,
calling directory enquiries on 192, or
asking your local social services department.
Specialist children/family workers - within
women's refuges
.
Parentline plus- 0808 8002222 (a telephone support service for parents).
Surestart - 0870 001 2345 (call for details of projects in your area).
ChildLine - 0800 1111 (Free, 24-hour helpline for children and young people who need to talk about any problem
