How can I keep my abusive parents away from my daughter?

DEAR DEIDRE: How do I keep my abusive parents out of my daughter’s life?

Growing up with them was hell and the last thing I want is for them to harm her too.

I’m 31, my husband is 35, and we’ve been together for five years. Recently, we welcomed our first child together.

When I was a child, my parents were verbally abusive and sometimes would even hit me. The worst part is that most of my wider family knew, yet felt no need to intervene.

Even my sister, who witnessed it all, still defends them.

After years of healing and distancing myself, I finally felt like I was moving on, but since giving birth they have been trying to contact me non-stop.

They keep saying that it’s their right to be in my daughter’s life, but I don’t want them anywhere near her.

I’m doing my best to ignore them but I’m worried sick they’re going to take matters into their own hands.

DEIDRE SAYS: As a mother, it’s up to you who you want to be around your child.

Your parents’ persistence shows how little regard they still have for your boundaries, and that it’s unlikely they’ve changed.

My support pack, Standing Up For Yourself, will give you the confidence to resist them.

But if you’re worried they might take legal action, contact Rights of Woman (rightsofwomen.org.uk, 020 7251 6577) for free advice on your rights.

You can also get emotional support from Stand Alone (standalone.org.uk), for those estranged from family members.