'Domestic abuse does not discriminate' - UUP's Butler on PSNI school referrals over incidents
Domestic abuse does not discriminate, and crosses every social class, profession, age group and community, a UUP MLA has said.
Robbie Butler was commenting after figures showing the PSNI made almost 56,000 referrals to schools, so that children affected by abuse at home could receive immediate support.
During the same reporting period, the UUP MLA says police recorded 146,082 domestic abuse incidents, including violent and sexual offences – and that “the true scale is likely to be even greater, as not every incident is reported”.
Mr Butler said: “These figures are deeply concerning because behind every referral is a child whose sense of safety has been shattered. No child should have to witness violence in their own home, yet for far too many it is a lived reality.
“Operation Encompass provides vital support by ensuring that schools understand why a child may arrive tired, distressed or unable to concentrate after experiencing trauma at home. That early intervention can make a real difference.”
Mr Butler said public debate often focuses on the influence of social media and online content, but warned that the greatest influence on a child’s behaviour is often much closer to home.
The Lagan Valley MLA said: “Domestic abuse does not discriminate. It crosses every social class, profession, age group and community. We must continue to strengthen support for victims while recognising that protecting children today is one of the most effective ways of preventing violence tomorrow.”
PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Stephanie Finlay said Operation Encompass “is a partnership between the PSNI, the Education Authority, and education providers.
“It means if Police attend a domestic abuse call, and children are present, Operation Encompass allows the officers to pass on relevant information to the safeguarding team at the child’s school the following morning, so the right support can be put in place.
“Incidents of domestic violence can be traumatising for children. Operation Encompass helps get children access to emotional support in a school environment where they have trusted adults around them”.