Domestic abuse during pregnancy
When we think of pregnancy we typically think of a whole-family celebration, a time of joy and a time for a mother to be cherished and taken care of. Sadly, pregnancy can be a high-risk time for mothers in an abusive relationship.
20-30% of pregnant women report incidents of domestic abuse
14% of pregnant women report very severe or life threatening abuse
20% of pregnant women are subjected to sexual violence
A partner might become jealous of the attention the mother is receiving or become anxious about not being their priority once the baby is born, escalating the level of abuse in the home.
Domestic abuse during pregnancy can vary from isolation of the mother, preventing access to medical appointments to terrifying physical attacks.
The impact of domestic abuse during pregnancy
This year already we have had many pregnant women reach out to our service and through referrals from our partnership with the MK hospital maternity team and our IDVA based in the hospital.
Domestic abuse not only harms the mother, the children already in the family but also the unborn baby which is absorbing Mum’s physical and emotional harm. It is important to us that we reach Mums-to-be and their little ones as soon as possible, giving them the option to find safety inside the Milton Keynes refuge.
How can you help us to support pregnant women and babies experiencing domestic abuse?
We’re asking for a gift of £10 for Mums-to-be or new Mums joining us to provide a bag of baby essentials.
Your £10 will gift a baby bundle:
1 x box of tissues
1 x pack of nappies
1 x pack of cotton wool
1 x bottle of baby wash
1 x bottle of baby shampoo
1 x baby drinking bottle
Your gift will provide items to mothers fleeing domestic abuse, whilst they can focus on taking care of their precious baby.
If you would like to gift towels, blankets or baby toys please email [email protected]
To gift pre-loved items please reach out to our friends at Baby Basics MK.
How does MK Act support children affected by domestic abuse?
At the Milton Keynes refuge we have a team of specialists who work to support children, young people and mothers with babies during a time of uncertainty after escaping the daily fear and experience of abuse.
Children residing at the refuge have access to counselling sessions, a specific children’s room in the refuge to facilitate play and socialisation with other children in the setting, an outdoor play area and we arrange after-school and school holiday activities for families.
At MK Act we believe it’s important to support the whole family with their wellbeing and recovery from a traumatic abusive experience, facilitating each family member to move forward together as a new family unit, strengthening their relationship and ability to rebuild after abuse.
Source: Women’s Aid: Supporting woman and babies after domestic abuse
If you are a professional who would like to find out more about the impact of domestic abuse on children, please reach out to our training team who deliver a one-day session called ‘Focus on the child’, email [email protected]
