Help for children

All children have the right to be safe. You should not be scared of anyone at home or upset because your mum is getting hurt.

If you're worried or scared about what is going on at home, it can help to talk to someone about what is happening. Maybe there's a teacher you like, or another adult you trust.

Try to remember these things:

• What's happening is not your fault.
• You don't have to deal with this alone.
• You can't protect anyone in your family on your own. It's not your responsibility either.
• Never intervene personally, it's dangerous, getting help is best.
• Hitting or hurting someone is against the law.
  No-one has the right to do it.

Who can I talk to?

The police

If you need help right away you should call the police. Dial 999 and ask for the police. You should give your name, address and telephone number and tell the police what is happening. Don't hang up because the police will call back to make sure the call is genuine and this could give your dad, step-dad or mum's boyfriend the chance to tell them everything is okay and the call was a mistake. It is better to leave the phone off the hook so they can hear what is going on.

The police will come to your house and talk to your mum, dad or any other adults. They may even talk to you. They should certainly make sure you are okay and have not been hurt. They may take away the person who was violent, shouted at or threatened your mum. Whatever happens you should remember that it is not your fault and your dad, step-dad or mum's boyfriend has got himself into trouble.

Childline and the NSPCC

If you are not in danger and can talk safely to someone about what is happening, you can call Childline (0800 1111) or the NSPCC (0808 800 5000). You don't have to tell them your name and the calls are free. They will listen to you, talk to you about what is happening and help you decide what you want to do next.

A teacher, doctor or other adult you trust

Talking to someone like a teacher, doctor or someone you trust can be a good idea. They will want to make sure that you and your mum are safe so they might want to talk to your mum too. If they are worried that you might get hurt they may have to tell someone else. They should always tell you what they are doing and who they are planning to talk to.

I don't understand what's going on - I need more answers

It's natural to have lots of questions about domestic violence - not many people understand what it's all about, or how to deal with it. We've tried to answer some of those questions for you - find out more by reading some of the most frequently asked questions.