Continuing support for children affected by domestic abuse

A third support programme for children and mothers affected by domestic abuse is to be launched in January following the success of the first two programmes.

Called PICADA (Positive Intervention for Children Affected by Domestic Abuse), the programme will be provided by Family Friends in partnership with other local support agencies including Berkshire East and South Bucks Women's Aid.

The support group will give children the opportunity to understand what has happened in their family and express their feelings in a safe and blame-free environment. Trained facilitators will work with the children to prepare safety plans in case they are exposed to further abuse, either directly or indirectly.

Mothers will be able to use the opportunity to understand what their child is learning so they can better support them.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways and streetcare, said: "Children are all too often exposed to domestic abuse from witnessing it going on between their parents or family members. They may be caught up in the abuse themselves. While it is sad that we need to provide this programme for young people and their mothers, I am pleased the borough is able to support it. We all have a social responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in our borough.

"The programmes have been well received and I am encouraged that the borough and its partners are able to run a further one next year.

"The council takes domestic abuse very seriously and will continue to work with all its partners to help reduce this problem. It is key that groups such as PICADA are available to provide this much-needed support. There are no excuses for domestic abuse. Those living and working in the Royal Borough need to know that all local partners, especially Thames Valley Police will use their powers to support victims of domestic abuse and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions"

Sophie Wing-King, Berkshire East domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: "Almost 2,000 children contact Childline every year about domestic abuse problems, and at least three-quarters of children under a Child Protection Plan live in households where domestic abuse occurs.

"Many children growing up in an abusive family will feel alone and scared. They may either self-harm or suffer injuries if they try to intervene, or often blame themselves for what is going on."

For more information or to refer to PICADA contact Sophia Lazarou at Family Friends on 0300 800 1003.

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