Pat's Answer

Hi there, and thank you for contacting Ask Pat. 

You have said that your Dad gets drunk easily and that he gets very aggressive towards you and your sister. We are really sorry to hear that you have experienced this. You have the right to be safe and protected from harm. You have been very brave getting in touch with us and it is great that you are looking for support for you and your sister. 

Your Dad has a responsibility to keep you and your sister safe and you have said that he can get very aggressive towards you both. Have you shared this information with anyone before? No one has the right to be aggressive towards you, whether it be physical or verbal. You have the right to talk to a trusted adult about what is going on for you. A trusted adult could be an aunt, uncle, teacher or someone else you would feel comfortable talking to. However, if you feel like you would be better off talking to a trusted adult that you do not know, Childline are there to listen 24 hours a day, every day and the service is free, confidential and non-judgmental. You can call us on 1800 66 66 66, contact us by text on 50101 or through our webchat at www.childline.ie . The ISPCC Childline website also has some information and articles you may find helpful: www.childline.ie/how-i-feel/; www.childline.ie/home-and-families/; www.childline.ie/bullying-abuse-safety-and-your-rights/.    

There are also other organisations out there that may be able to help you. 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 that children and young people are safe at home. If you would like to get in touch with them or get information, you can find your local Túlsa office here: www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/ . You may need the support of an adult to help you with this. 

If you feel unsafe or in danger at any time in your home, you can call the emergency services on 999 or 112 and they can help you. Remember, it is your right to be safe. 

You have the right to get the help and support you need. Childline is always here for you when you are ready to contact us. 

Take care and we hope to chat to you soon, 

Pat