Alesha Dixon has revealed how her parenting was impacted by witnessing domestic violence in her childhood.
The Britain’s Got Talent judge has long been open about the abuse which her mum Beverley was subjected to by a former boyfriend when Alesha was just eight.
Witnessing the horrific violence has shaped the way Alesha, 42, has parented her two daughters, Azura, seven, and Ananya, 19 months, who she shares with husband Azuka Anonye.
Speaking to The Sun On Sunday, Alesha said: ‘I have had things happen that have knocked me to my core and had to spend many years working through it. Growing up, I didn’t really see healthy relationships and good communication skills.
‘I want to make sure my children are never exposed to things that I saw… I want them to grow up feeling very secure.’
She continued: ‘I saw people coming and going, and violence, so it took a long time to know how to have good relationships. It sounds like a sob story, but it really has shaped who I am.’
Alesha also said that it’s a ‘misconception’ that her childhood is portrayed as a ‘bad’ one.
‘That’s not the case. I had a lot of love around me but I did see things I shouldn’t have seen as a girl,’ she said.
In 2010, Alesha explored the domestic violence Beverley suffered in the documentary Don’t Hit My Mum.
The former Misteeq singer recently revealed how becoming a mum has changed her.
Speaking to The Mirror, she explained: ‘Being a mum has made me a better person because I’m always mindful of my behaviour. Obviously there is still a rebellious side in me and I’m young at heart, but for the most part I’m quite sensible.
‘My children keep me grounded. Everything I’m doing now is to make sure they have a great future and to protect them.’
Domestic abuse helpline
If you are in immediate danger call 999. If you cannot talk, dial 55 and the operator will respond.
For emotional support, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. Alternatively, for practical and emotional support, please contact Women’s Aid Live Chat 10am – 6pm seven days a week.
For free and confidential advice and support for women in London affected by abuse, you can call Solace on 0808 802 5565 or email advice@solacewomensaid.org.
Male victims of domestic abuse can call 01823 334244 to speak to ManKind, an initiative available for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.
Alternatively, the Men’s Advice Line can be reached at 0808 8010327, or emailed at info@mensadviceline.org.uk.
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