SWINDON Women’s Aid, we reveal today, is planning a course to help young people aged eight and up who have been affected by domestic violence.

It is an excellent concept and a logical extension of the great work this organisation has been doing for many years.

The perpetrators of domestic abuse inflict violence and humiliation not just on their spouses and partners but also on any children who are present when the abuse occurs.

Sometimes those children fall victim to violence themselves, but whether or not this is the case they suffer immensely.

At the very least they must witness a parent being abused, perhaps by another parent or somebody who has assumed the role of one.

Survivors of such situations recall not just fear and trauma but also guilt. Perhaps they feel they should have been able to offer protection; perhaps they feel self-loathing over confused feelings for the perpetrator.

Such unresolved issues can go on to colour the lives of those affected forever unless they are addressed. As Swindon Women’s Aid director Olwen Kelly said: “The effects of witnessing or being subject to abuse can be deep and long-lasting.

“We will be working with the child to help them come to terms with their experiences around domestic abuse and to help them develop positive lifestyle choices and increase self-confidence.”

The young people who take part, like anybody who comes to Swindon Women’s Aid for help, couldn’t be in better hands.