We often hear from parents who tell us they feel trapped. Trapped not just by the behaviour of their child, but by the circumstances around them.

For many, one of the biggest barriers to seeking support or making changes is money. Without financial security, options are limited. Choices feel out of reach, and this is exactly why the work of Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) is so important in helping those who experience economic abuse.

SEA is the only UK charity dedicated to raising awareness of economic abuse and supporting victim-survivors to live free from it. Their vision is a world in which all women and girls can live their lives free from economic abuse and their work touches every corner of society, from supporting individuals one-to-one to influencing government policy.

What is economic abuse?

Economic abuse is a form of control that can be difficult to spot from the outside, but the effects are profound. For some, It might look like:

• Being prevented from working or studying
• Having wages, benefits, or savings taken away.
• Being forced to take out credit, or having debt built up in your name.
• Being denied access to food, clothing, transport or other essentials.
• Having financial decisions monitored or controlled.

We know that for many parents experiencing Child to Parent Abuse (CPA), these patterns also exist... alongside so many others. 

Economic Abuse is huge, and many individuals are unable to recognise it.

We regularly speak to parents who tell us their child has taken control of their bank card, pressured them into handing over money, or left them fearful of what might happen if they say “no”

In fact, in our most recent report 82% of PEGS' parents experience Financial control, while a shocking 97% experience coercive and controlling behaviours.

Why SEA’s work matters

Economic abuse doesn’t end when the immediate abusive situation ends. Its impact lingers and is long term, damaged credit ratings, lost jobs or years of financial instability. This makes it harder to rebuild, and harder to heal.

That’s why SEA’s work is so important.

Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA)...

• Raise awareness of economic abuse, helping professionals and the public to recognise the signs

.

• Support victim-survivors through practical guidance, resources, and their Financial Support Line (delivered in partnership with Money Advice Plus)

• Drive systemic change, working with banks, businesses, and policymakers so that systems support, rather than penalise, those impacted

• Campaign for legal reform, ensuring the voices of victim-survivors shape the laws that protect them.

This holistic approach means that someone who has experienced economic abuse isn’t just supported in the moment but they’re also less likely to face the same barriers in the future.

Working together to break cycles of abuse

At PEGS, we believe that no one should have to be left in silence, whether through CPA or other forms of abuse. We also know that breaking free from abuse is rarely as simple as it sounds - especially when financial control is part of the picture. That’s why we’re proud to highlight SEA as part of our Service Shoutout this month.

Together organisations like SEA and PEGS create a network of support, each tackling a different piece of the puzzle. Because when it comes to abuse, the more we raise awareness, the more we empower people to name it, challenge it and seek support.

Find out more

If you or someone you know might be experiencing economic abuse, SEA’s website is full of practical advice, resources and signposting: Surviving Economic Abuse.

As always, if Child to Parent Abuse is something you’re experiencing, PEGS is here to listen and support. You don’t have to go through this alone.