Ask Sam

Hi there,

Thanks for your letter. It sounds as though home is a really scary place for you and you’ve been really brave getting in touch to share what’s been happening. 

You say that your parents have the right to punish or ground you, but they absolutely do not have the right to beat you up or make you feel unsafe in your own home.  What’s happening to you is wrong, and is not your fault.

I can hear you are worried about what might happen if you tell someone, but you have the right to feel happy and safe in your own home. 

There are ways for the abuse to stop and for you to be safe. The quickest way for the abuse to stop is to tell a trusted adult such as a teacher. They will then be able to support you and contact people who can keep you safe. I know that deciding to speak to someone for the first time can be difficult though, so it’s important you know you’re not alone with this.

It’s okay if you are unsure what to do and it might be helpful to talk this through with one of our counsellors. You can ring for free on 0800 1111, log on for a 1-2-1 chat or send an email. Remember that the counsellors are there to listen and support you and can look at some possible options with you.

There is also lots of information and advice on our Physical abuse page which you might find helpful.

I also want you to know that if you ever feel really scared or unsafe, you can call 999 to ask for immediate help.

Take good care of yourself,
Sam