Stopping Domestic Abuse Together
SDAT is an initiative led by Derbyshire Police in conjunction with Social Services, Health Services, schools and other agencies, who work together to safeguard children and adults. Domestic Abuse can encompass but is not limited to the following types of abuse:
Psychological
Physical
Sexual
Financial
Emotional
Children and Young People witnessing domestic abuse
Witnessing domestic abuse is really distressing and scary and it causes serious harm to children. Children who witness domestic abuse can experience a wide range effects. They may:
Become anxious and depressed
Have difficulty sleeping or have nightmares
Be easily startled, flinch or react disproportionately to loud noises
Complain of physical symptoms such as tummy ache
Start wetting the bed
Have temper tantrums and display challenging behaviour at school
Behave younger than they are
Not want to go to school
Become aggressive towards others
Have poor self-worth
Self-harm
Have difficulty forming positive relationships
They may feel:
Guilty - because they think they have done something wrong
Powerless - because they can't stop the violence
Confused - because it doesn't make sense
Angry - because it shouldn't be happening
Sad - because it's a loss
Afraid - because they may be hurt, they may lose someone they love, others may find out
Alone - because they think it is only happening to them
What is SDAT?
SDAT is an early notification system to schools to quickly notify them of any incidents of domestic abuse where the Police have attended a household where children live.
This enables schools to understand changes in a child's behaviour, attitude or general presentation and to support children if needed.
The Hideout
The Hideout is an organisation that offers support and advice to children and families affected by Domestic Abuse. To find out more click the Hideout Button to be redirected to their website.
