A new consultation will shine a light on one of the most widespread “hidden harms” taking place behind closed doors in households across Cleveland.
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland (OPCC) is asking parent/carers to share their experiences of aggression and violence from a child, who they care for.
The consultation will also ask practitioners about their awareness of the issue and about how families are currently supported.
By finding out what works well – and what doesn’t – parents and professionals can help shape the services based on families’ needs in future.
The aim is for services to better meet the needs of anyone affected by this form of harm in the home.
One in 10
Experts estimate that up to one in 10 families in the UK could be affected – but often behaviour goes unreported.
Almost half (40%) of parent and carers surveyed in London said they refused to report it. *
Parent carers often want to protect their child despite experiencing harm from them.
Frequently, they only report incidents when they have reached crisis point and fear for their own safety. By that time, they have already suffered multiple incidents of aggression and violence.
Feeling shame
Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: “It’s common for parents and young people to feel shame about this kind of behaviour.
“Many parents are scared that their child will be criminalised or removed from the family if they report incidents.
“This, coupled with the fact that there is no standard way to record such incidents across the board, means that these incidents are frequently under-reported and hidden from view.
“I’d like to hear about people’s experiences so we can better understand the problem and look at the best ways of addressing it.”
The OPCC will be running its consultation from now until the end of the month (June 2026.)
Child to parent aggression and violence can take the form of physical violence; emotional, economic or sexual abuse; and coercive control. It may also include damage to property and abuse towards other family members, particularly brothers and sisters.
Abuse has a significant impact on family members. It may contribute to poor physical and mental health, a breakdown in relationships and isolation as well as loss of income or housing.
All parent/carers, who want to take part in our consultation, should use this link
All feedback is anonymous and will be treated in confidence.