Pat's Answer

Hi there, welcome to Ask Pat. 

Thank you for reaching out and telling us what is going on for you.  

You are telling us that your dad hits you and you are asking how you can leave the house. 

You are taking the right steps in reaching out and seeking help. If you feel you are in any danger in your home at any time, you can contact the emergency services at 999 or 112. You have the right to be safe. No one has the right to hit you or hurt you in anyway. 

We are sorry you are going through this with your dad. We are really concerned for your safety and well-being. You mention you want to leave the home, is this something that you have thought through? Do you have somewhere in mind of where you would go, where you would be safe and cared for? Maybe you would like to contact us in Childline to discuss this further. We would love to hear from you, and it is a safe place for you to chat about your options and anything else that you wish to chat to us about. 

It is your parent’s responsibility to ensure you are safe and your dad does not got the right to hurt you. You have the right to be safe and happy. Would there be another trusted adult that you could talk to about your dad hitting you? This adult could be another parent, an aunt, uncle, or grandparent. We know that it can be hard to open up to someone who is close to us, so maybe talking to somebody outside of your family who you feel comfortable talking to might work better for you at first. It is important for your own physical and mental wellbeing that you get the help and support that you deserve.      

Here is some information and articles that you might find helpful. Túsla is the Child and Family Agency in Ireland. In Túsla, there are social workers whose job it is to make sure that all people under the age of 18 are safe. You can find your local Túsla office here www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/. The Childline website has lots of information too which you may like to look at www.childline.ie/bullying-abuse-safety-and-your-rights/; www.childline.ie/your-rights/  and www.childline.ie/home-and-families/ and www.childline.ie/running-away/ .  

Childline is here for you whenever you would like to talk, or chat and we really do want to listen to you. You are welcome to talk to Childline by phone on 1800 66 66 66 or text on 50101 or through web chat on www.childline.ie. These services are open 24-hours a day, every day and are free and confidential.   

You are brilliant in coming forward and reaching out. You can get in touch with Childline anytime. Remember, you have the right to support and to be safe and happy. You do not have to be alone during this tough time.  

We really hope to hear from you soon.   

Keep safe,    

Pat