For many children, Christmas is a magical time of the year, full of warmth and laughter. It is a time of family traditions and fun. This is the picture we often see when we think of children at Christmas.  

Now, imagine you are a child this Christmas who is living in a household with domestic abuse. This household is full of fear instead of joy. There is disappointment and sadness where excitement and laughter should be. You may feel anxious. You may feel lonely. You may just want to get through it without being hurt.  

In the UK, 750,000 children witness domestic abuse each year. It is estimated that 1 in 5 children have experienced domestic abuse. We also know that this figure increases around Christmas time.   

A child that has witnessed or experienced domestic abuse may not understand what they have been through. They may feel angry, guilty, insecure, or confused. They may become withdrawn or depressed and have very little self-worth. 

Survive is a specialist children and young people’s service with over 43 years experience of providing a dedicated support service to children and families who have experienced domestic abuse. Through our group work and 1:1 support, Survive helps children explore how they feel. We help them to understand what they have been through and know that they are not to blame. We help them to stay safe and let them know where they can turn to if they need more help.  

Please help us continue to support more children across South Gloucestershire and Bristol by donating whatever you can to our appeal. Every single penny will go directly to our support services and could make a real and enduring difference to a young person’s life. 

Because every child deserves to feel safe and happy.   This Christmas and every day.  

#SilentNightEveryNight