According to the NSPCC, around 1 in 5 children have been exposed to domestic abuse and one third of children witnessing domestic violence also experienced another form of abuse. Domestic abuse can seriously harm children and young people. Witnessing domestic abuse is child abuse, and teenagers can suffer domestic abuse in their relationships.
For signs of domestic abuse click HERE.
The school's first responsibility is to keep all children safe and we can only do this with your help and support. If you have any concerns about the wellbeing or safety of any young person or child in our care please contact TWGSB's Safeguarding Officers: Amanda Simpson, Headteacher, or Adam Lewis, Assistant Headteacher (adlewis@twgsboys.kent.sch.uk).
At some point in their lives, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6–7 men will experience domestic abuse. Domestic abuse includes a range of behaviours including actual or threatened physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial abuse. It can be perpetrated by a current or ex-partner, a family member or someone with whom there is, or has been, a close relationship.
If you need support or advice about something that is happening to you, or a friend or relative, there are several places, locally and nationally to which you can turn.
Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Service: DAVSS is a local charity which provides support for people in the Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks area who are suffering domestic abuse. Highly trained volunteers offer advice and support to both women and men initially via the helpline, 01892 570538. The helpline is manned 10:00–13:00, Monday–Friday. Refer to their website to find out more about the service or becoming a volunteer.
Freedom: The Freedom Programme is a safe group for any woman who has experienced or is experiencing domestic abuse. There are several programmes a year and you can self-refer to the group.
Community Domestic Abuse Programme: The Kent Community Domestic Abuse Programme is a voluntary group work programme designed specifically for men whose violence and abuse is directed towards their female partners and ex-partners. The programme focuses on the beliefs and intentions that underpin abusive behaviour and on the non-controlling behaviours that can be used instead. A range of techniques and materials are used, such as videos, group discussion, skills practice, handouts and homework.
Men who live in Tonbridge and Malling, Tunbridge Wells or Sevenoaks can be referred to the programme. However, they must accept that their behaviour is a problem, accept responsibility for ending their abusive behaviour towards their partner/ex-partner and be prepared to agree to the conditions of attendance.
Counselling Services: Counselling Directory is a confidential service that encourages those in distress to seek help. The directory contains information on many different types of distress, as well as articles, news, and events. All counsellors have provided the service with relevant qualifications and insurance cover or proof of membership of a professional body.
Woman's Aid: Women's Aid Federation of England (Women's Aid) is the national charity working to end domestic violence against women and children. The charity's mission is to advocate for abused women and children and to ensure their safety by working locally and nationally. Women's Aid offers support and a place of safety to abused women and children by providing refuges and other services. The charity also empowers women affected by domestic violence to determine their own lives and recognise and meet the needs of children affected by domestic violence. They also promote policies and practices to prevent domestic violence and help raise awareness of the extent and impact of domestic violence in society.
Refuge: The national helpline offers advice and support to anyone experiencing domestic violence. Refuge provides safe, emergency accommodation through a network of refuges throughout the UK. It also offers a children's programme, individual and group counselling for women who have suffered abuse, help with resettlement and an outreach project for women from ethnic minority communities.
Hidden Hurt: The Hidden Hurt site has been written by a survivor of domestic violence, and provides advice and information to those who are in an abusive relationship.
Protection Against Stalking: Protection against Stalking (formerly CRT Trust) works jointly with relevant agencies to increase awareness of stalking and harassment to ensure victims receive all the protection and help they need to rebuild their lives and live free of fear.