In a poignant moment during the recent Assembly Select Committee on Domestic Violence meeting, a survivor shared a deeply personal account of the lasting impact of domestic violence on children. Under the bright lights of the assembly room, the atmosphere was charged with emotion as the speaker recounted the struggles faced by young ones exposed to such trauma.

"Children often react to domestic violence by acting out or withdrawing," the survivor explained, highlighting the signs of anxiety, depression, and sleep issues that can plague these innocent lives. The echoes of her own childhood experiences resonated in her words, as she described the constant state of vigilance she maintained, a habit formed in a household marked by turmoil.

Her story was not just a personal narrative but a reflection of a broader issue. Many children, she noted, normalize the abuse they witness, which can lead to a cycle of violence that perpetuates through generations. This cycle, she emphasized, is often compounded by the struggles of parents who themselves may be dealing with their own traumas, such as her father, a military veteran and prisoner of war.

The committee's discussions underscored the urgent need for comprehensive support systems for families affected by domestic violence. As the meeting progressed, members acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues not only for the immediate safety of victims but also for the long-term well-being of children who are often the silent witnesses to such violence.

As the session concluded, the weight of the survivor's testimony lingered in the air, a reminder of the critical work ahead. The committee's commitment to tackling domestic violence is not just about legislation; it is about breaking the cycle and fostering a future where children can grow up free from the shadows of abuse.