> Understanding how to help survivors of abuse heal requires an understanding of the scope.
> Stopping abuse requires a clear picture of abuse.
> Confidentially sharing your story can help others.
> A rare opportunity to make a difference is open. If you are a survivor of childhood abuse, will you lift your voice for others too?
While at a large conference centered on preventing and responding to child abuse, I heard a recurrent theme: we need to understand that area better. There are many reasons that childhood sexual violence is underreported. They may include shame and stigma, fear of retaliation, not wanting to hurt the “known” perpetrator, religious or cultural norms, or others.
Some survivors of childhood sexual violence who report do so years later. There is no set timeline for disclosure. It is a personal decision impacted by a multitude of complex factors. The understanding gained from disclosure helps describe the scope of the problem. Disclosure is a challenging act of bravery that protects others.
Confidentiality is essential for survivors. It may open the door to healing as well as prevention. Confidentiality allows for a clear picture of abuse within a society.
A rare opportunity to confidentially share your story is now open. Protect Children Finland is a non-governmental agency working to end the sexual abuse of children. They are opening the door for survivors across the globe to share confidentially. Your voice will enable a better future. If you have experienced sexual violence in childhood, your voice matters!
Please consider participating in the confidential anonymous survey for survivors of sexual violence in childhood. As a worldwide community of faith, we can grow the global movement to protect children.
Scouting Ministries 