New support service launched for young people who experienced or witnessed domestic abuse

Delivered by Swindon Domestic Abuse Service and commissioned by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, the pilot offers one-to-one support for those aged seven to 18 years old.

It helps them manage difficult emotions as well as learn about healthy relationships and develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills.

The service is accessible through all primary schools, secondary schools and colleges across the town.

Parents who want their children to have this support just need to speak to their child’s school or college to request a referral.

For more information about domestic abuse support for young people in Swindon, visit swadomesticabuse.org/our-services/children-young-people

Children and young person's outreach worker for Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service Katie Woolhouse said: “This has been incredibly well supported by Swindon’s schools and colleges.

“It is absolutely vital that we recognise the lasting effects of a child experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse. The project allows us to plug the gap in support that is otherwise unavailable.

“As a specialist domestic abuse support service, we are able to approach the one-to-one sessions with a specific focus on the recovery from the trauma associated with their domestic abuse experiences, which makes the project unique, crucial and incredibly worthwhile.”

OPCC chief executive Kieran Kilgallen said: “Domestic abuse can have a devastating effect on children and young people, and we know that adverse experiences suffered during childhood can change the direction of a young person’s life.

“A priority in the current Police and Crime Plan is to protect the most vulnerable in society, and this project not only helps children and young people overcome the trauma they have been exposed to but also encourages them to make sense of their experiences and cope with future change with the aim of limiting any long-term impact.”