Childhood Experiences of Domestic Violence

This volume focuses on first-hand accounts from children and young people regarding their experiences of both domestic violence and the support services. It examines the user's experience of service provision for the victims of domestic violence and it seeks to encourage a more effective and professional approach in the services that offer to support and protect children. The study is based on a three-year research project into child support which began in 1996. It covers topics such as: the types of violence experienced by mothers and witnessed by children; the types of abuse children are subjected to; children's understanding of domestic violence; children's and mothers' views of how best to protect children and their perception of the support services; and the barriers for children and mothers to seeking help. The book assess the role and response of the social services, police, voluntary organizations and the agencies of health, education and housing. It describes approaches to existing problems, emphasizing a child-focused response, and concludes by recommending improvements for policy and practice.