A call for protection, support and justice for care leavers who experience domestic abuse and become parents.
The Purpose of This Petition I am writing this petition to highlight the lack of support available to care leavers who experience domestic abuse, particularly those who are parents and are trying to escape abusive relationships. Care leavers should not have to face domestic abuse, fight for their safety, and navigate the challenges of parenthood without adequate support. Everyone deserves the opportunity to live free from abuse and to raise their children in a safe and stable environment.

While specific national data on care leavers experiencing intimate partner violence in the UK is limited, research indicates they are at a significantly increased risk. Studies suggest that care-experienced youth may face rates of intimate partner violence up to three times higher than their peers. Furthermore, broader statistics show that young people aged 16 to 24 are the most likely demographic to experience domestic abuse, highlighting the acute vulnerability of those transitioning out of the care system.

My Personal Experience

My name is Kira. I fled domestic abuse on 7 April this year while fighting for the safety and custody of my three-year-old son, Zeke. I made the decision to leave after my ex-partner threatened to kill me and physically attacked me while I was holding my son. The abuse began when I was 16 years old and my ex-partner was 20. At the time, I was still in care. During the relationship, I experienced significant financial, sexual and physical abuse. As a care leaver, I believe I should have been better supported to recognise the abuse, escape it safely and rebuild my life afterwards.
The Impact on My Son The effects of domestic abuse have not been limited to me. I am deeply concerned about the impact on my son and his safety and wellbeing. My ex-partner has allowed various people into our son's life, including my brother, his mother and his current girlfriend. I am concerned about the circumstances my son is being exposed to and the potential consequences for his emotional and physical wellbeing. No child should have to experience the lasting effects of domestic abuse or be placed in situations that may put their safety, stability or happiness at risk. As a mother, my priority is to protect my son and provide him with a safe, secure and loving environment.
The Lack of Support for Care Leavers Care leavers are already facing significant challenges when transitioning to independent living. When domestic abuse occurs, those challenges can become even more difficult, especially when children are involved. Leaving an abusive relationship can involve fear, financial hardship, housing difficulties, legal challenges and concerns about child custody and contact arrangements. Care leavers who are parents need appropriate, accessible and consistent support to help them escape abuse, protect their children and rebuild their lives. No one should feel that they have to remain in an abusive relationship because they lack the support or resources to leave safely.
What This Petition Calls For I am calling for greater recognition of, and practical support for, care leavers who experience domestic abuse. Specifically, I would like to see: - Improved access to specialist domestic abuse services** for care leavers, including those who are parents. - Safe and suitable housing** for care leavers fleeing abusive relationships with their children. - Better financial and practical assistance** to help survivors establish independent and secure lives. - Stronger support for children affected by domestic abuse**, ensuring their safety and emotional wellbeing remain a priority. - Improved coordination between social services, domestic abuse organisations and relevant authorities, so survivors are not left to navigate complex systems alone. - Greater accountability and awareness** of the additional vulnerabilities care leavers may face when experiencing domestic abuse. 6. Why Change Is Needed My experience has shown me how difficult it can be to escape domestic abuse while also trying to protect your child and secure your future. Care leavers deserve the same opportunity for safety, dignity and stability as everyone else. Their experiences of being in care should not leave them at a disadvantage when they need help the most. Survivors should not have to fight..

Let fight this together not as neighbours but as community