2024 has been an extraordinary year for PEGS, as we witnessed a remarkable 70% increase in referrals. This growth underscores both the escalating awareness of Child to Parent Abuse (CPA) and the crucial role PEGS plays in addressing this hidden issue. With an unwavering commitment to supporting families, the team have provided invaluable assistance to 3,520 parental figures in 2024 through a comprehensive range of services. CPA remains one of the least recognised forms of domestic abuse, yet its impact on families can be profound and far-reaching. CPA often leaves parents feeling isolated, ashamed, and unsure where to turn for help. The significant increase in referrals to PEGS highlights a growing recognition of the problem, as well as a collective effort to break the stigma surrounding it.

PEGS has continued to work tirelessly to address CPA, offering targeted resources and interventions to help parents navigate the complex emotions and challenges associated with abuse from their children. Through their advocacy work, PEGS has also been instrumental in pushing for policy changes and greater societal awareness of CPA, ensuring it is no longer an overlooked issue.

Behind the statistics and numbers are countless stories of resilience, empowerment, and transformation. The parental figures supported by PEGS in the past year have benefited from a holistic approach designed to meet the unique needs of each parental figure. This multi-pronged strategy includes:

• One-to-One Support: Tailored and bespoke individual sessions with both practical and empathetic guidance for parents experiencing CPA.
• Advocacy: Acting as a voice for parents, PEGS has supported individuals in navigating complex systems, including schools, social services, and the justice system.
• Daily Practitioner Sessions: By providing consistent access to skilled practitioners, PEGS ensures that parents have the opportunity to receive ongoing, timely information, guidance and emotional support.
• Workshops and Programmes: PEGS workshops and programmes have been particularly impactful, equipping parents with practical strategies to address CPA along with providing tools to help improve parents’ wellbeing and emotional health

Among the many success stories from 2024 is Jane’s* journey. A mother of two, Jane had experienced years of escalating verbal and physical abuse from her teenage son. Feeling trapped and without support, she turned to PEGS. Through one-to-one sessions and attending EPIC, PEGS' empowerment programme, Jane gained the tools to rebuild her confidence and restore a sense of balance in her home. She shared, "PEGS didn’t just help me as a parent; they helped me find myself again". Jane’s story is just one example of how PEGS’ services have transformed lives, giving hope to families who previously felt hopeless.

The significant increase in referrals is a clear indication that more families are seeking help and that the conversation around CPA is finally gaining momentum. PEGS’ work in 2024 has not only provided life-changing support to thousands of families but also laid the groundwork for a more informed and compassionate society.

As we look to 2025, PEGS remains steadfast in our mission to support parents, challenge societal norms around CPA, and advocate for systemic changes. With continued dedication and community support, PEGS is poised to expand our reach even further, ensuring that no parent faces CPA alone.

*Name changed to protect privacy