Domestic violence lessons for youngsters
Children in Torbay as young as 5, are going to be taught about domestic violence
It comes as the local council admits levels of abuse are high, right across The Bay.
Annie Hargreaves advises the authority, she told Heart children should be told they do not have to abuse people, even if it’s something they have experienced.
She said: “every child who witnesses domestic violence will not become a perpetrator, but it will affect their attitudes towards relationships. We want to offer a balance to that. Girls expect to be hit and expect to be asked where they are. Boys have some very questionable expectations around their relationships with women”.
They are hoping the changes, likely to come in September, will encourage youngsters to question how they behave and see they have choices.
For further advice if you or a friend is experiencing domestic abuse, contact:
Torbay Refuge
Crisis accommodation for women and children
Tel: 01803 524594
Domestic Abuse Support Service
Free comprehensive support for men, women and transgender people who are or have experienced domestic abuse
Tel: 01803 217614
Bridge Associates
Domestic Abuse Educational and Therapeutic Services (including Children's Group, Pattern Changing and SEEDS)
Tel: 0845 053 5627
Safer Communities Torbay
Tel: 01803 841274
www.safercommunitiestorbay.org.uk
Men's Advice Line & Enquiries
Advice and support for men in abusive relationships
Tel: 0808 801 0327
Devon and Cornwall Constabulary
General Enquiries (24 hours)
Tel: 08452 777444
In an emergency dial 999