Alex's Answer

Hi there, you are very welcome to Ask Alex.

Thank you for your question. It takes a brave person to ask for answers to questions like yours.

Any form of physical force, including head butting is illegal in Ireland as it falls under physical child abuse. Physical abuse is when an adult hurts a child’s body. Head butting would fall under an act of physical assault.

We are concerned why you are asking this question. Maybe you observed an adult doing this to a child or you have experienced it yourself. If this has happened to you or if you have witnessed an event like this, do you think you could talk to a trusted adult? You have a right to get help and support and to talk
to someone. You have the right to be listened to and heard about what you are experiencing.

Sometimes talking about what we are going through with a trusted adult can help us to make decisions. This could be another family member, teacher, youth worker or neighbour.   Remember, young people have the right to report any concerns of abuse to Social Workers or to the Gardaí. Túlsa is the Child and Family Agency in Ireland. The social workers within Túlsa are there for young people under the age of 18 years, and their job is to make sure children and young people safe at home. You can find your local Túlsa office here www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/ if you
would like to get in touch with them or get information. 

If you ever feel unsafe at home or anywhere else, and are in danger, you can call the emergency services at 999  or 112.  You have a right to get help and support and to talk to someone about how you feel. You have the right to be listened to and heard about what you are experiencing. 

We are here for you in Childline, 24/7, if you would like to talk about how you feel and to chat about what you might say to a trusted adult. You can phone us any time for free on 1800 66 66 66 or if you would prefer to chat online you can go onto our Childline website www.childline.ie and click on the orange Live Chat icon. Our Team will not judge you and we can help explore some options with you.

Please look after yourself, and reach out for support soon,

Alex