|
Emergency Numbers: 999 (Dial 55 while on the line if you cannot speak), ESDAS: 01737 771 350

Children

We are here to help, offer practical advice and emotional support to parents and children.
child walking with adult in sunlit park scene

Here for you and your children

We understand that for parents experiencing domestic abuse one of their priorities is the safety and needs of their children. We are here to help, offer practical advice and emotional support to parents and children. 

All children are unique. They will respond to and cope with their experiences in many different ways. Children may become depressed, anxious and have low self-esteem, resulting in emotional, behavioural, developmental and academic challenges. As children, they can feel lonely and isolated and, at times, may display acts of harm towards others, themselves or become withdrawn.

Common observable effects

  • Changed sleeping patterns including nightmares and bed-wetting.
  • Excessively clingy.
  • Eating disorders.
  • Self-harm.
  • Stress related conditions and illnesses.
  • Aggressive and disruptive behaviour.
  • Withdrawn behaviour.
  • Suicidal feelings.
  • Being triggered unexpectedly.
  • Hypervigilance.
  • Flashbacks.
  • Fight, flight, freeze, flop responses.

Research shows that those children who are supported and given an opportunity to work through their experiences show the best recovery and go on to form good relationships in adult life. This is where we can help, call us to find out more.

parent comforting upset child in hoodie
Illustration of two women jogging together outdoors

Programmes we offer

Healing Together information leaflet

Drawing & Talking overview

Drawing and Talking is a therapeutic intervention technique designed to help individuals, both children and adults, process emotional difficulties and trauma through a combination of drawing and non-directive conversation.

It’s a person-centric approach, meaning the individual leads the session, with the therapist providing a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves through art and dialogue.

Key aspects of drawing and talking

Gentle and Non-Intrusive

The technique focuses on creating a safe and predictable environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their emotions at their own pace.

Focus on Expression

Drawing serves as a non-verbal means of communication, allowing individuals to externalise their feelings, especially those they might find difficult to articulate verbally.

Non-Directive Approach

The therapist avoids directing the content of the drawings or imposing interpretations, instead focusing on facilitating the individual's own process of self-discovery and expression.

Person-Centric

The individual is in control of the session, deciding what to draw and how much to share, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.

12-Week Cycle

Drawing and talking is typically delivered over a 12-week period, with regular sessions to build trust and allow for consistent exploration of emotions.

Complementary Therapy

It's designed to complement other therapeutic approaches, such as CBT or traditional talking therapies, rather than replace them.

What happens when you contact ESDAS?

We understand that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re unsure about your situation, ready to take action, or somewhere in between, ESDAS is here to listen, believe, and support you.

Our service is free, confidential, non-judgmental, and independent, available to anyone affected by domestic abuse who lives or works in Reigate & Banstead, Tandridge, or Mole Valley. If you live outside of these areas. Refuge is a nationwide charity that will be able to provide support wherever you live.

Surrey helpline: 01483 776822

Petal images showing golden summer grass and purple lavender flowers