The NSPCC Helpline fielded almost 4,000 contacts about concerns for children experiencing domestic abuse between April 2024 and September 2024.
There has been a 19% increase about the issue compared to the same period last year.
Coercive or controlling behaviour, emotional domestic abuse and post-separation domestic abuse were concerns repeatedly raised in contacts the adult helpline received about domestic abuse.
Childline is reminding all children that the service is ready to support them if they have concerns about domestic abuse, or any other issues, this festive season. They are dealing with an increase in contacts to our Helpline from adults with concerns about children who are experiencing domestic abuse.
Between April and September 2024, we received 3,879 contacts relating to the issue, a 19% rise compared to the previous year.
A deeper dive into the domestic abuse data reveals mentions of coercive or controlling behaviour and emotional domestic abuse increased by a half, while post-separation domestic abuse more than doubled.
Children are also directly contacting us about this issue, with Childline delivering over 500 counselling sessions on domestic abuse in the same six-month period.2 3
Over Christmas, they are concerned that these numbers will continue to rise with longer, darker nights seeing children spending more time at home and having several weeks away from school over the festive period.
In response, they are launching our annual Christmas campaign designed to remind young people that Childline is available throughout the festive season to support on all concerns, including domestic abuse.
In their Christmas TV advert, a young girl who has been neglected during the festive period contacts Childline for help. She speaks to a trained counsellor who listens to what is happening to her and provides support. Shaun Friel, Childline director, said:
“Christmas should be a time of wonder and excitement for children but sadly for some it can be a moment in the year when problems at home come to a head, triggering instances of issues like domestic abuse.
Contacts to the NSPCC Helpline about domestic abuse have been on an upward trend this year and the worry now is this will continue over Christmas and into 2025.
We are committed to ensuring no child is left to suffer in silence in December or any other time of the year, with our Childline service being open throughout the festive period providing free, confidential advice and support.”
