By Nasik Swami Many children in the district are growing up in an environment of fear because of domestic violence, says a regional community family care organisation. Limestone Coast-based Centacare says their data shows many children from the area have developed unusual behaviour patterns because of their experiences at home. The executive manager for Domestic Violence, Homelessness, and Youth Services, Megan Welsh, told The News that domestic violence could have long-lasting effects on children’s development, behaviour, and wellbeing. “Children may feel guilty for being unable to protect their parent, blame themselves for the abuse, or even step in to try and stop the violence,” Ms Welsh said. She said living with constant trauma and stress affected a child’s development, regardless of whether they were physically hurt or witnessed harm done to family members. ‘’They may disengage with education because the violence at home makes it difficult to attend school regularly. […]