Bridges Support

Drum Housing has teamed up with the East Hampshire Locality Team, the NSPCC and other local partners, to fund the provision of essential help for young people aged 5 – 18 who have been affected by domestic abuse.

The Bridges Support Project offers children and young people the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and gain a better understanding of how domestic violence has affected them; giving them a chance to move on and have a much more positive attitude towards adults and others. The support also allows those involved to gain a much better sense of who they are, which enables them to feel confident in themselves.
 
British Crime Surveys indicate that 1 in 4 women experience some form of domestic violence and abuse, and that when children are present, domestic violence is more likely to occur. The effects on children and young people living with domestic violence have been well researched and documented. However the outcomes for these children are seriously undermined, in terms of educational achievement, emotional well being and social relationships.

The Bridges Support Project offers one-to-one support on a weekly basis to young people who have witnessed or experienced domestic abuse. The aim of the project is to provide an opportunity for young people to talk about their experiences if they want to, or in the form of activities where they can express their feelings. Support can be tailored, starting off with weekly consultations which can become less frequent as progress is made according to the needs of the individual.

In addition to this work, the Project offers intensive training opportunities for any professionals working directly with children, to provide them with an understanding of the prevalence, causes and the effects on parenting and children. All support is offered by professionals who have specific training and experience around the issues of domestic abuse.

Sue Collis from East Hants Locality Team stated, “Last night I met with a young person for the first time… I told him that it wasn't his fault that the grown ups were fighting, and that his dad hurt his mum. That he wasn’t to blame. He looked at me very intently, raised his arms and smiling very broadly said, "Yes, yes, yes". He told me that he had always thought that it was his fault. It was a marvellous moment ... so many children think it's their fault. That is what this work is all about.“

Petra Norris, Drum Housing said “Drum recognised a definite need to bridge the gap in support offered to the children of families that have experienced domestic abuse. We were happy to award a grant to fund this vital service which will ensure better futures for those affected and help build better communities.”

For further information or a referral form for the Bridges Support Project please contact the East Hants Locality Team, tel: 01730 235236 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it