I would really like advice here please. Daughter (17) arrived home last night very drunk. First time as far as I know. We were really annoyed and at first she denied anything was wrong. However, when husband left room, she told me that the reason she was drinking was that she couldn't face coming home "to HIM" (her Dad), as he was violent and needed anger-management. Now, I knew what she was talking about, as in general he is easy-going and takes a lot more cheek and demands from the kids (we have 4 teenagers) than I do, but on occasion - usually over something trivial - he explodes. This has happened maybe twice a year, but more frequently in last while (teen years are awful!!). These blow-ups consist of belting the kids, going puce with rage while roaring at them and attempting to kick down doors when they lock themselves in bedroom. Obviously, I attempt to come between them, but have found this really enrages him - almost to madness - and he takes it out on them even more, so I have done my best to calm him, get the kids away, etc. Anyway, it all came out last night - she said I should have called police, divorced him and that I didn't protect them. She is going on holiday with friends today and I promised her I would do something while she is away, but I don't know what to do. This morning, I couldn't discuss the matter with OH, as it isn't something you can start while rushing out to work. He had overheard some of the conversation last night and said that while he regrets causing hurt to her, he is not prepared to take "blame for her drinking." I just want to get D to airport before the Sh** hits the fan. Am really upset and wonder what people think I should do - go to counsellor (how do you pick one?), solicitor or police? I really don't want to get him a criminal record and have kids give statements against him - he really is a good person when not like this. Anyway, there is no way he will leave home voluntarily. What can I do?
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