Current Opportunities

Organisation Description

Words Matter is on a mission to improve children's mental and physical health and development by ending childhood verbal abuse by adults. It affects a shocking 2 in 5 (41%) children. This is children being criticised, blamed, disrespected, and threatened, which can have a devastating impact on a child’s life. The damage caused is profound. It erodes a child’s self-esteem, disrupts their relationships, and impairs their ability to function in school, work, and social situations. The long-term effects can be severe, ranging from anxiety and depression to PTSD, substance abuse, and suicide. Evidence-based and supported by a high profile Advisory Board of experts we are the first organisation in the world to focus on this issue and are shining a light on this pervasive issue, raising awareness of its devastating effects and providing the tools and support needed to prevent it. By prioritising awareness and prevention, we aim to reduce the prevalence of verbal abuse and improve the mental and physical health and development of children across the UK. Our work focuses on three key areas: • Research: We conduct groundbreaking studies to better understand the scale and impact of childhood verbal abuse by adults. By engaging with those who have lived experience, we ensure our work is directly informed by the voices of those affected by systemic disadvantage. • Awareness: We run national campaigns, offer free factual information, and develop behaviour-changing resources and training. Our goal is to reach every parent, teacher, and child in the UK within the next five years, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to prevent CVA. • Collaboration: We partner with academics, clinicians, child development specialists, charities, policymakers, and individuals with lived experience to create and implement effective solutions. Our collaboration aims to drive long-term change and ensure that the issue of CVA receives the attention and action it deserves.