Calls to children's domestic abuse helpline hit record high: "I was scared to the point where I didn't feel like I could tell another human being"
The NSPCC handled almost 8000 child welfare calls about the issue last year
The NSPCC says calls to their helpline about children experiencing domestic abuse has reached a record high.
The children's charity says it handled almost 8000 child welfare calls about the issue last year: a 14% increase on the year before.
Ian Erridge from Romford was abused by his father for more than ten years.
He tells Greatest Hits Radio: "I was scared to the point I didn't feel like I could tell another human being through my life, I didn't know who to turn to."
Ian is speaking about his experience in order to prevent others going through the same thing.
An average of 21 adults reach out to the NSPCC Helpline with concerns about domestic abuse every day.
Adults told the NSPCC they were worried about children suffering various forms of domestic abuse, including physical abuse, coercive control, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, stalking, and financial abuse.
Ian says growing up with his father felt like he was "trapped in a washing machine":
"Periodically the drum slows down and then when it needs to speed up and it's on a spin cycle, it just spins out of control. Your mind just goes in so many different directions and you can't get out of it because you're trapped behind the glass.
"When I was younger I felt real resentment towards my Mum.
"I couldn't understand why she wasn't getting more involved in protecting me.
"As I was getting older I realised she was trying to protect her, and me, from my Dad.
The NSPCC say the rise in contacts to the helpline has been driven in part by coercive and controlling behaviour, which saw a 29% increase compared to the previous year.
Coercive and controlling behaviour includes assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten a partner or ex-partner.
NSPCC warn children whose parents or carers use or experience coercive and controlling behaviour within their own relationships can feel isolated and frightened and may have poor mental health as a result.
Paddi Vint, Development and Quality Manager for the Domestic Abuse Practice Advisor Team at the NSPCC Helpline, said: “The surge in contacts to our Helpline about domestic abuse is alarming, particularly given we have seen the highest annual total of reports around this topic since records began.
“Domestic abuse can have a dreadful impact on the whole family, with the effects being both immediate and lasting well into the future.
"It is vital everyone is aware of the signs of domestic abuse – including coercive control – which we know is becoming more prevalent in our communities.
"Greater collective vigilance should ensure the relevant authorities are involved more quickly when a child is at risk.
"Our Helpline is here to support anyone who has concerns about a child experiencing domestic abuse.
"Speaking out can help young victims get the support they need to address whatever may be happening at home.”
Those who have experienced domestic abuse can access specialist support at the NSPCC Domestic Abuse Hub, Recovery Together (DART).
The service provides children and mothers an opportunity to meet others who have lived through similar experiences.
Anyone with any concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected].
Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.