Pat's Answer

To Pat / 14 Jan 2020

Topic: Is it abuse

Your Question

Is it abuse if I was shouting before my mam hit me? She slapped me and hit me with a ruler. I am 14

From Pat / 28 Jan 2020

Answer

Welcome to Ask Pat,

You’ve said in your email that your Mam has hit you. It sounds like you’re looking for clarity around the situation.

We’re very sorry to hear that your Mam has hit you. Nobody has the right to hurt you, regardless of whether you were shouting or not. Abuse is never ok and it is never your fault. You have the right to get help from an adult that you feel safe with about this. It might be helpful to talk to another family member, teacher, your doctor or a school counsellor. If you don’t feel like there is a trusted adult in your life, Childline is always here.

It’s understandable that you may be confused about what happened. Every young person and child has the right to feel safe at all times in their home. On the Childline website there is section called ‘Abuse’ under ‘Info and Advice’, you might find it useful to have a look at this.

Also you can talk through your thoughts, feelings and options with Childline. Childline is here 24/7 to listen to you. You can call us on 1800 66 66 66 or chat with Childline online/on text (text TALK to 50101). Here at Childline we don’t judge what you say and your chat can stay confidential. It was so brave of you to contact us about this today.

Take Care,
Pat.

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