Abuse is everyone’s problem

Victims keep abuse secret, they’re frightened to speak out because of the emotional pressure and blackmail that the abuser places on them.  He will say no-one will believe a child’s word against his, or that they will be blamed not him. He may threaten violence against the child or other members of the family, or even threaten suicide. Alternatively he may seductively groom the victim by offers of material gifts or even ‘love’. Thus he creates a closed relationship where the child cannot either speak out or gain access to help or healing. This not only leaves children and adolescents vulnerable to further abuse it may damage them to the extent that they go on to abuse others.

The destructive cycle of abuse often ruins the lives of those being abused, affects their children and families and is cripplingly costly to society on many levels.  We should all be concerned about a child’s welfare and be aware of what might be happening to a child we know.

We all have a duty to be alert to:

  • Bruises or marks on a child’s body
  • Remarks made by the child, another child, parent or another adult
  • Unexplained changes in the child’s reactions, behaviour or personality
  • Evidence of disturbance or explicit detail in a child’s play, drawing or writing
  • Signs of neglect, failure to thrive or exposure to unnecessary risks
  • Extreme passivity

If you have any concerns about children or adolescents in your family or neighbourhood, you can take action. Call your local council and ask for the Social Services Department.

This site explains SWAAY’s approach to breaking the cycle of abuse.

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