Pat's Answer

Hello, you are very welcome to Ask Pat,  

Thank you so much for trusting us with your thoughts. We know it can be difficult, but we also know how great it is for young people to share their problems. Talking about and sharing what is going on for you is a big step forward.  

You say that sometimes you mum and dad hit you, shake you and pull your hair. You don’t know what to do. 

We are sorry to hear you are going through this at home with your parents. You are so brave in writing to us today, looking to get the help and support that you deserve. No one has the right to harm you or hurt you physically, mentally, or emotionally. Your parents have a responsibility to look after you, to care for you and to listen to you. You do have a right to talk to another adult you trust and feel comfortable talking with, about what is going on for you at home and to talk about your relationship with your parents. Maybe it would be easier to talk to somebody that you do not know first. However, it is important for your mental health and well-being that you do get the support you need and that you know that none of this is your fault.   

If you are ever feel unsafe at home, or anywhere else, you have the right to call the emergency services at 999 or 112.  

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. You can find your local Tulsa office here www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/  if you would like to get in touch with them or get information. You may need the support of an adult to help you with this.  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/.  

You are not alone, the Childline Team are here for you and we would love to chat to you more about what is going on for you. You can reach out to talk or chat to us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and our services are free and confidential. You can talk to us by phone 1800 66 66 66 or chat to us one-to-one on our webchat on www.childline.ie  or by text on 50101. We will not judge anything you say to us or tell you what to do. We will look at what options may be available to you, with you.   

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

We hope to hear from you soon. Take care,  

Pat