Survivors with Learning Difficulties
Sexual abuse is when someone makes you do something sexual or touches you in a way that makes you uncomfortable.
Sexual abuse happens to a lot of people.
If it has happened to you, you have not done anything wrong.
It is not your fault.
If you have experienced sexual abuse, you might feel:
Some people who have been sexually abused find it helpful to talk to people who will listen.
Talking can help you feel better.
Things you might be worried about when contacting us for support.
- If the person who assaulted you is a person that helps you, and you might think you will get in trouble for speaking out.
- You might feel that people will be angry with you.
- You may be very scared.
- You may worry that people will think you are not telling the truth.
- You may have been told to keep the abuse a secret.
- You may find it difficult to communicate and this could make reporting feel more difficult.
We understand the many difficulties people with additional needs face in reporting and talking about sexual abuse.
Things we can do to make accessing support easier:
We will believe you.
We will listen to you.
We will support you.
We will take time to find out the best way to support you.
We can talk about your communication and information needs. For example, offering you easy read information or making sure there is someone there to support you with communication.
You can bring someone you trust to your support sessions.
You might need some help to arrange your appointments, we can speak to someone you trust to do this.
We can meet you at a safe place like a health centre or community centre which is easily accessible.
If you would like support, you can ask someone you trust to speak to us. Or you might want to speak to us yourself. You can contact us by telephone, text, or email.
We can offer shorter support sessions.
Our advocacy service can provide you with information about reporting and support you to report.
