At Glow, we work with everyone who is, or could be, affected by abusive behaviour, no matter their age, gender, identity, or background.  

Our Children and Young People Team provide specialist support for those aged 5-19 who have been impacted by abuse.

The team welcome changes to the Domestic Abuse Bill, which come into place in January 2022.

Changes to the Bill mean that the law will officially recognise children as victims of abuse, rather than witnesses.

Glow’s Education and Prevention Team Leader, Sarah Buckley, told us how important this news is, and what might change for children and young people that we support.

Sarah said: “The changes to the Domestic Abuse Bill will mean that children who live in a home where domestic abuse takes place will be recognised by law as victims in their own right.

“In our Children and Young People Team, children are at the heart of what we do. As a charity, we have always seen them as hidden victims of domestic abuse. Often the effects of domestic abuse on children go unrecognised, but it’s important to acknowledge that growing up in a household with abuse has a devastating impact on children and young people.

“At Glow, we offer support for children and young people aged from 5 to 19, who have experienced domestic abuse or are currently in their own abusive relationship. We also have a 1:1 support service available for education providers in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

“Our Relationships without Fear programme is delivered in schools in Staffordshire, Cheshire and Derby. We deliver the sessions to make sure that children know the difference between a healthy and unhealthy relationship, and where they can get support if they need it.

“Children have always been at the centre of our work, so the changes to the Domestic Abuse Bill won’t change what we do in our day-to-day roles. However, it does mean that children will be recognised officially as victims, so we hope this means a more prioritised system of support for them.

“There is still a lot of work to be done, but this is a huge milestone for victims of domestic abuse, and hopefully means an increase in protection for families affected by domestic abuse.”

Find out more about our Education and Prevention programme by clicking here.