Together we can prevent child sexual abuse Learning from one another Responding confidently to safeguard children who have been sexually abused

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse Responding confidently to safeguard children who have been sexually abused Abuse breaks something sacred inside us … the most important harm I have wrestled with is one that complicates how we solve the problem of sexual abuse. It is the problem of a broken heart. Adults can better bear a broken heart…but it doesnt work that way for children. When children are betrayed and they get no help for the wound, they develop a pinched outlook on love and on life Fran Henry, Founder of Stop it Now!

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse What hasnt changed: some static statistics Most adult survivors didnt disclose as children and dont disclose as adults 1 in 6 children are victims of sexual abuse (Cawson et al) 8 out of 10 abusers are known to the child Over 90% of allegations do not result in convictions Less than 10% of child sexual abuse is dealt with by the criminal courts. Most is not reported to the authorities.

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse What do we know about children? In general, they dont expect adults to harm them They feel they have got to do as they are told They dont expect to be lied to They expect adults to be honest They think adults know best They believe the threats they are told

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse What do we know about children? They depend on adults who are close to them for their survival They are taught that adults know best – they look for clues from family about what is OK and not OK They may not know how to tell They may want the abuse to stop but want to keep the relationship with the perpetrator They may be fearful of the consequences of telling on someone, especially if that person is a close attachment figure: What will happen? What wont happen?

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse What do we know about children? Effects of abuse-related stress can seriously damage development – including the pattern of brain development Early detection and intervention with children can drastically reduce harmful effects (Glaser, 2006)

Together we can prevent child sexual abuse Gridlock Parent/carer Abuser Abused child