WeMatter: A Beacon of Support for Young Survivors of Domestic Abuse
WeMatter, a specialised programme by Victim Support, provides an empowering, trauma-informed recovery experience for children and young people aged 8 to 17 who have witnessed or experienced domestic abuse. This online programme is rooted in evidence-based practices, notably Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, designed to help young people process their experiences, build resilience, and develop strategies for a brighter future. Through a series of structured sessions, participants explore their feelings in a safe, supportive group setting, led by experienced facilitators who guide them towards understanding and healing.
Over eight weeks, WeMatter offers one-hour group sessions via Zoom, enabling young people to connect and share experiences with others from across the country. Each group typically includes up to 12 participants and is facilitated by two trained leaders, ensuring individualised support and attention. These sessions create a comfortable, inclusive space where young people can process their emotions, learn essential coping strategies, and build healthier self-perceptions.
Some notable session topics include:
By employing activities, discussions, and games, WeMatter helps children develop healthy coping strategies that strengthen their resilience and confidence. Find out more here, including how your school can access this free support.
Insights from the WeMatter pilot
A WeMatter Story: “I felt welcome and safe and I’m a lot happier now”
The impact of WeMatter on participants has been profound. Over 93% of young participants reported that they would recommend the programme to others in similar situations, highlighting its value and effectiveness. Improvements in emotional well-being were also noted, as shown by results from the Short Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, which indicated statistically significant positive changes in participants’ overall sense of well-being and safety. Younger participants especially reported that WeMatter helped them better understand and cope with their emotions, as well as improve relationships with family and friends.
For facilitators and participants alike, the shift to an online format has proven advantageous. Participants benefit from accessing the programme within the familiarity of their home or school environment, while online delivery increases accessibility, especially for those in rural areas. Parents and guardians appreciated the programme’s flexible scheduling, which supports both home-based and school-time attendance. Additionally, the online format allows children to connect with peers from diverse regions, fostering a broader sense of community and belonging.
The success of WeMatter’s pilot phase highlights its potential to expand into a nationwide service. Key recommendations for scaling include continued facilitator training, enhanced communication with schools and parents, and technological support for participants. Victim Support is also exploring ways to better serve children with special educational needs, which may include supplementary resources or one-to-one sessions for those requiring additional support.
WeMatter has proven to be a lifeline for young people affected by domestic abuse, offering structured guidance, compassionate support, and practical tools for managing complex emotions. As Victim Support prepares to extend WeMatter’s reach across England, it continues to emphasise the importance of trauma-informed, accessible, and inclusive support for every child in need. The programme’s stories of transformation, resilience, and empowerment serve as a testament to the potential of well-designed, empathetic interventions that prioritise the well-being of young survivors.
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