Physical Assault & Violence
Physical Assault & Violence
When your child has been physically harmed by another young person
Finding out your child has been physically attacked, threatened, or harmed by their peers can be frightening and overwhelming.
You may be feeling shocked, angry, confused, or unsure what to do next.
Mine2 is here to help you understand your options and find the right support.
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Physical assault is any intentional act that causes physical harm or makes someone fear they are about to be harmed.
This can happen:
At school
At parties
In public places
During social activities
As part of bullying or group targeting
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Physical assault can include:
✓ Punching
✓ Kicking
✓ Slapping
✓ Pushing
✓ Hair pulling
✓ Spitting
✓ Throwing objects
✓ Group attacks
✓ Threatening violence
✓ Using an object as a weapon
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Focus on immediate safety and wellbeing.
If medical attention is needed, seek it as soon as possible.
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Allow them to explain what happened in their own words.
Try not to pressure them for every detail immediately.
Reassure them that:
You believe them
They have done the right thing by telling you
They are not alone
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Write down:
What happened
When it happened
Who was involved
Any injuries
Any witnesses
This information may be useful later.
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Depending on the circumstances, you may wish to contact:
The school
A safeguarding lead
The police
Your local authority
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Seek immediate support if:
Your child is seriously injured
Threats are ongoing
Weapons were involved
There is concern for your child’s safety
The incident may constitute a criminal offence
If there is immediate danger, contact emergency services.
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Children respond differently after violence.
You may notice:
Anxiety
Withdrawal
Anger
Fear of returning to school
Sleep difficulties
Loss of confidence
These reactions can be normal after a distressing event.
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Reassure them
Let them know:
“This is not your fault.”
“I’m here for you.”
“We will get through this together.”
Maintain routines
Where possible, keep daily routines stable.
Seek support early
You do not have to wait until things become worse before asking for help.
Recommended Support Organisations
NSPCC
Support and guidance for children and families experiencing harm.
Best for:
General safeguarding concerns
Advice for parents
Understanding next steps
Victim Support
Practical and emotional support for victims of crime.
Best for:
Emotional recovery
Understanding available support
Guidance after an assault
Childline
Confidential support for children and young people.
Best for:
Children who want to speak to someone independently
Emotional support
YoungMinds
Mental health support for young people and families.
Best for:
Anxiety
Trauma responses
Emotional wellbeing
Parent
Stories
Many parents tell us:
“I thought this only happened to us.”
You’re not alone.
Read anonymised stories from other parents who have navigated similar experiences.
Related Support
What Mine2 is
Mine2 is a parent-first initiative from Be Charity Group.
We support parents and caregivers whose children have experienced bullying, peer harm, or violence - by helping them understand their options and find the right support at the right time.
