Record number of adults contacting NSPCC over children experiencing domestic abuse
Last updated 19th Aug 2026
The NSPCC says the number of adults contacting its helpline with concerns about a child experiencing domestic abuse is at its highest level on record.
Over the past year it’s handled 8,448 child welfare contacts of this kind.
It marks an increase of 8% on the previous year, and more than 80% compared to *2021/22 when the NSPCC began recording this data.
Last year almost a third of child welfare contacts about domestic abuse ended in a referral to local agencies including police and children's social services.
The charity says signs that a child has experienced domestic abuse can include aggression, anti-social behaviour, bed wetting, attention seeking, tantrums, withdrawal and problems in school.
A mother from Northern Ireland, who contacted the NSPCC Helpline, said, “I want to be amicable with my children’s father but the way he’s acting is making it hard. We have a court order for contact which he keeps breaking, he won’t bring the children back when he’s supposed to, turns up at other times demanding to see them, even takes them out of school.”
“When I’ve asked him to stick to the order, he says he’ll make reports about me to social services for abuse and not bring the kids back at all next time. I hate that he still intimidates me, but I’m worried if I report him to agencies then it’s my word against his.”
Paddi Vint, NSPCC Helpline Service Head, who is based in Belfast, says “It’s alarming that we are seeing record levels of adults contacting our Helpline about a child experiencing domestic abuse.”
"Domestic abuse is often hidden, with stigma and shame making it harder to ask for help. Children and young people might also feel frightened and confused, keeping the abuse to themselves.”
“If you’re worried about a child, you can speak to our free NSPCC Helpline in complete confidence. Reaching out can be the first step to help families begin to move forward.”
Anyone with any concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC Helpline free on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected]. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk. If an adult or child is in immediate danger, call 999.