New NSPCC polling shows Christmas may raise child abuse risks as financial pressures, alcohol and limited services strain families.
Research from the UK’s leading children’s charity, published at the end of last week, suggests children could face increased risks of abuse and domestic violence over the festive period.
The YouGov survey, comprised of 4,259 UK adults, found 66% believe children are most likely to experience abuse during the holidays, while 69% think exposure to domestic violence rises at this time of year.
What’s more, one in eight adults reported having concerns for the safety of a child they know over Christmas.
Participants cited financial pressures, changes in household dynamics and reduced access to support services as reasons the risk of abuse rises at this time of year.
Financial pressures at home were cited by 73% of those surveyed, followed by substance misuse (69%), food insecurity (65%), families spending more time together (61%) and support services being closed or operating with limited capacity (55%).
The survey accompanies the NSPCC’s seasonal campaign, which illustrates the challenges some children face when schools are closed. Last winter, thousands of children contacted Childline, the NSPCC’s helpline, with concerns about abuse.
One young person told the helpline: ‘Dad’s drinking always gets worse at Christmas. Then the drinking leads to arguments and the arguments turn into him hitting mum. I wish I could protect her, but dad is so much stronger than us both. I want to call the police or social services, but who will come out at Christmas?’
Another child, aged just 16, said: ‘It always kicks off at Christmas. Mum goes crazy at dad; she hates him trying to speak to his family, even to say Merry Christmas…I’ve locked myself in my room with my sister for now; when mum’s done with dad, she might blow up on us next.’
The campaign advert, now showing on TV and radio, is inspired by the true story of a woman abused by her father. It follows a little girl named Sarah, who returns home from school at the end of winter term and is confronted by her cruel parent.
Natalie Dormer, actor, producer and NSPCC ambassador for Childline, said the research reveals an ‘uncomfortable truth’ that usually goes ‘unspoken at this time of year.’
‘While many of us look forward to Christmas, far too many children face a season filled with uncertainty, anxiety and fear,’ Dormer continued. ‘The campaign advert, inspired by a real survivor’s story, captures the heartbreaking moment when the school term ends and a child’s only safe space slips away.
‘Behind closed doors across the country, children are enduring unimaginable situations while the rest of the world celebrates. This NSPCC campaign sends a crucial message: Childline will be there for every young person who needs support throughout the festive period.’
During the Christmas period Childline will be operating 24/7 and can be reached by either ringing 0800 1111 or visiting their website.
Image: Shutterstock
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