Smiles

Children witnessing violence at home are silent victims of domestic violence themselves. Living in a violent environment has a lasting impact on children leading to depression, anger, uncertainty about the future, a skewed understanding of gender roles and intimate relationships leading to behavioral and personality issues. Children are important stakeholders in the conversation around domestic violence and deserve our protection and care.

At PCVC, child survivors of domestic violence are provided with counseling, art and play therapy, development programs, peer support groups, referrals to child psychologists and financial support to pursue formal education.

Over the years, one of the main reasons we have identified for women hesitating to leave abusive partners is fear for their children’s futures and doubts about their ability to provide financial security and good schooling as a single parent. In keeping with our approach to support women in breaking the cycle of violence, education support is a critical service we offer women and children.