Brave Sheffield mum whose partner assaulted her and their seven-year-old daughter in 'hidden domestic violence' campaign speaks out

Daniella Parker, 28, from Woodhouse Mill, was attacked in her home by Joe Barratt, 29, of Birklands Avenue, Handsworth, in November 2020. She suffered a subdural haematoma to the front of her skull as a result.

Barratt, who works as a painter and decorator, had been out drinking. He punched her in the head and also assaulted their seven-year-old daughter during the same incident.

Miss Parker has released a photograph of her injuries and relived her ordeal in the hope that it stops others from committing the crime, and encourages anyone who is suffering in silence to report what has happened to them.

She said: “What happened to me and my daughter was horrendous. I suffered serious physical injuries which remained for some time. He subjected me to a vicious beating until I couldn’t get off the floor and made my seven-year-old daughter watch whilst she pleaded with him for my life.

“He also assaulted his daughter.

“My injuries meant I struggled to do basic things like care for my two young children who were seven and one at the time. That had a massive impact on me as a mother of a young child in particular. I want him to know what he has done to me and that it isn’t right.

"A young child shouldn’t have to see that. My two children have had to see their mummy relive what happened and go through the criminal justice system.

“I want him to look at my injuries and to ask himself if what he did was in any way acceptable. Likewise - I would ask other people who think domestic violence is acceptable to see my injuries and read what happened to me.

“It’s made me suffer with anxiety about the smallest of tasks like going shopping in the fear of bumping into him.”

Barratt admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Daniella and assault against his daughter on November 9 and is due to be sentenced at Sheffield Magistrates Court in January 2022.

“I am pleased in the end that my attacker will face the consequences of his actions but I know a lot of people continue to suffer in silence and not report what has happened to them - either out of a misguided loyalty to their attacker, feeling too scared to do so or they don’t think they will be taken seriously.

“I would urge anyone suffering domestic violence to seek help - tell police what is happening to you so they can take action. They will listen to you and they will deal with those responsible. During my experience all the agencies involved, including the police were really supportive and helped me through everything.

“Likewise if you are committing domestic violence, then seek help. It is never acceptable and never right.”

Detective Superintendent David Cowley is the South Yorkshire Police lead for domestic abuse. He said: “Dealing with domestic abuse is a priority for South Yorkshire Police. Daniella has been brave coming forward and seeing the prosecution through - I know it can be a difficult decision for victims.

“I would encourage victims to read what happened to Daniella and to report offences to us.

“You can report it to us by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency or tell a family member, friend or neighbour. Abusers often rely on silence so they can continue their abuse.

“If you are worried about a loved one or someone you know, report it to us. We will listen.”

Call police on 101. In an emergency or if a crime is in progress always call 999.