ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the various forms of domestic violence, its prevalence and impact on children, the services available to support children and, specifically, the value of play as a therapeutic tool. Organisation supporting children affected by domestic violence are often not core funded and there is a lack of consistency in terms of the level and types of support available. In November 2012, the Welsh Government put a White Paper out for consultation, outlining policy and legislative proposals aimed at ending violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence. Studies show that children who witness abuse and live in a violent environment are at risk of serious behavioural and other psychological problems. Rivett, Howard and Harolds findings suggest the children from homes with domestic violence show more aggression, display impaired cognitive and motor abilities and have delayed verbal development. Social services referred Katie for therapeutic play sessions due to exposure to domestic violence.
