Domestic abuse fears for Scots children as reports surge by 20%

Domestic abuse fears for Scottish children are on the rise as reports surge by 20%. Concerns about children suffering from domestic abuse in Scottish households have escalated by nearly 20%, with cases anticipated to increase further in the lead-up to Christmas. During the last six months, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) recorded almost 4,000 pleas for help. The charity mentioned that children have been reaching out directly to their helpline about violence at home, with an average of 21 calls received on this issue per day. This surge resulted in a total of 3,879 calls received by Childline from both adults and children, with the charity providing 500 counselling sessions to youths during the same period – a 19% increase compared to the previous year.

According to the NSPCC, common issues highlighted by callers included 1,279 incidents of coercive/controlling behaviour, 1,451 cases of emotional domestic abuse, and 999 reports involving domestic abuse after separation or divorce. The spike in these figures is expected to continue as the festive season approaches, with longer nights leading to children spending more time at home during the holidays. To address this concerning trend, the NSPCC is launching its annual Christmas campaign to remind young people that Childline is available throughout the festive season to provide support on all concerns, including domestic abuse.

Adeniyi Alade, the head of NSPCC helplines in Scotland, expressed, “Christmas should be a time of wonder and excitement for children, but sadly this is not always the case. For some, it can be a challenging period wherein problems at home intensify, triggering issues like domestic abuse.” He further added, “Contacts to the NSPCC Helpline about domestic abuse have been on the rise this year, and the concern now is that this will continue over Christmas and into 2025. Our mission is to ensure that no child is left to suffer in silence. Our Childline service is open in December and throughout the year to provide free, confidential advice and support.”

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or through the website childline.org.uk. Adults concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or via email at help@NSPCC.org.uk. Additionally, more information on DART (Domestic Abuse, Recovering Together) can be found on the NSPCC website.

In summary, the surge in reports of domestic abuse among Scottish children is alarming, especially with the upcoming holiday season. The NSPCC’s efforts to provide support and raise awareness through their Christmas campaign play a crucial role in ensuring that children facing such situations have the necessary resources and assistance available to them. It is a reminder of the importance of safeguarding children’s well-being and providing them with avenues to seek help and support in times of distress.