22 Jul, 2024
As the school summer holidays begin in the UK, many families look forward to spending time together. However, this period can also bring increased stress to family life, with risk of domestic abuse, and other forms of abusive behaviour in the home.
At The For Baby’s Sake Trust, we are here to support parents throughout the year, and to raise public awareness and response to domestic abuse, to help keep babies, children and families safe from harm.
Why there is a heightened risk of domestic abuse during school holidays?
Several factors contribute to an increased risk of domestic abuse during school holidays:
- Increased time together: Families spend more time at home together, which can heighten tensions, especially in households already under stress. There is risk of increased exposure to parents who may use abusive behaviour, and day to day interactions may lead to conflicts escalating more quickly.
- Financial strain: The cost of holidays can put additional financial pressure on families, exacerbating existing stressors and triggering abusive behaviours. Parents may also struggle with childcare during the holidays – not only the cost, but the impact of loss of earnings, or the pressure of working from home with children present.
- Lack of routine: The disruption of regular school routines can be challenging for parents and children alike. This may impact the behaviour of children, and parents may find themselves increasingly under stress.
- Reduction in support: Schools play a vital role in identifying signs and symptoms of domestic abuse and other forms of abusive behaviour. They also provide a lifeline of support to many children and parents. With the schools closed, children and parents are increasingly isolated and may be unsure where to turn.
- Drug and alcohol abuse: Holidays can mean an increase in drug and alcohol abuse, including increased consumption. Drug and alcohol abuse can exacerbate harmful behaviour.
What is the impact of domestic abuse during school holidays on babies and children?
Domestic abuse can have profound and lasting effects on children, including:
- Emotional and psychological trauma: Children exposed to domestic abuse are at a higher risk of developing emotional and behavioural issues. They may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. With the schools closed, these children may not have access to their usual forms of support and help with managing these behaviours.
- Developmental delays: The stress and fear associated with witnessing domestic abuse can hinder a child’s cognitive and emotional development, impacting their ability to learn and grow healthily.
- Physical harm: In some cases, children may also be directly harmed during episodes of domestic abuse. Even if they are not physically hurt, the emotional scars can be deep and long-lasting.
What to do if you’re worried about experiencing domestic abuse during school holidays
If you are concerned about experiencing domestic abuse during the school holidays, and the impact this is having on your family life, consider the following steps:
- Seek help immediately: Contact organisations such as Women’s Aid or Refuge for immediate support and advice. They offer helplines and online resources to assist you in finding safety and support.
- Create a safety plan: Develop a plan for leaving the house quickly and safely if necessary. Identify a safe place to go and a trusted person you can contact for help.
- Reach out to support networks: Friends, family, and local community groups can provide support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to those you trust.
What to do if you’re worried about your own behaviour during school holidays
The holidays can be a stressful time for all families. If you are worried that your behaviour is impacting others in your family:
- Seek professional help: Organisations like Respect offer resources for those who want help to stop abusive behaviours. Therapy and counselling can help address underlying issues and prevent harm.
- Acknowledge the problem: Recognising and admitting that your behaviour is harmful is the first step towards change. This awareness can lead to seeking the help needed to stop harmful behaviour towards others.
- Develop healthy coping strategies: Learn and practice techniques to manage stress and anger in non-abusive and harmful ways. Mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, and reaching out to friends and families for support can be beneficial in managing emotions. Drug and alcohol abuse is more likely to make the situation worse. It’s important to reach out for help if you are struggling with drink and drugs and it’s impacting your family life.
Where to get help for domestic abuse during school holidays
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, contact the following organisations for support:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
- Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Website: nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Women’s Aid
Samaritans
- Helpline: 116 123
- Website: samaritans.org
NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)
- Helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Website: nspcc.org.uk
Men’s Advice Line (for male people experiencing domestic abuse)
- Helpline: 0808 801 0327
- Website: mensadviceline.org.uk
GALOP (for LGBTQ+ individuals)
- Helpline: 0800 999 5428
- Website: galop.org.uk
Childline (for children and young people)
- Helpline: 0800 1111
- Website: childline.org.uk
Support The For Baby's Sake Trust
The For Baby’s Sake Trust is dedicated to supporting families experiencing domestic abuse all year round. By donating, you can help us provide essential services and support to those in need.
Together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all families, ensuring that every child can thrive in a loving and safe home.
