When we think of domestic abuse, we often imagine intimate partners or spouse who are displaying abusive behaviours. But what if the person is your own adult child? It's a reality many are living through silently—and one that PEGS is working tirelessly to bring into the light.

In our latest report, we surveyed 100 parental figures experiencing abuse from adult children, aged 18 and over. The results were heart-breaking and eye-opening.

Child-to-Parent Abuse (CPA) doesn’t end when a child turns 18. In fact, it can often escalate. Our data shows:

• 98% of respondents experience daily verbal abuse.
• 25% are physically assaulted each month.
• 91% report property damage.
• 82% have been victims of false allegations.
• 47% say their child has also abused a partner.

The abuse goes beyond the home. Pets are being hurt or killed, family members intimidated, and parents publicly humiliated. And still, most suffer in silence—because society rarely talks about it.

There is no single profile for a parent experiencing CPA. They are mothers and fathers, married and single, employed and retired. The overwhelming majority in our survey were women (99%), and most were aged 46–55. The abuse spanned years, often beginning in childhood and persisting well into adulthood.

The mental toll on parental figures is alarming with

• 100% of respondents say their emotional wellbeing has been negatively impacted.
• 94% feel stressed.
• 96% feel isolated.
• 80% have had friends or family cut ties because of their situation.

Even more concerning, many are afraid to reach out for help. 91% considered contacting a professional but changed their mind due to fear of being blamed or having their child prosecuted. Over half said they’d previously been threatened with neglect charges when seeking support prior to their child turning 18. With only 9% of cases being heard at MARACs, it just shows how many parental figures are falling through the gaps.

This report is a sobering reminder of why PEGS exists. We are committed to:

• Raising awareness about adult-child-to-parent abuse.
• Providing practical and emotional support for parental figures.
• Training professionals to recognize and respond effectively.
• Influencing policy to formally recognise CPA within domestic abuse frameworks.
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The pain shared in this report is real—but so is the strength. Every voice we amplify brings us one step closer to change.

Let’s make sure no parent has to suffer in silence.

Download the full report below