Part of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, the Truth Project provides survivors of child sexual abuse with an opportunity to share their experiences with the Inquiry, and put forward suggestions for change. It’s closing at the end of October this year so the accounts shared can inform the findings and recommendations in the Inquiry’s Final Report, helping to better protect children in future.
Those who have shared their experience have described feelings of liberation, hope and empowerment. Many said they shared their account with the Truth Project in order to help those who had been through a similar experience.
The Truth Project has made me feel less alone in the world. I felt heard and not judged.
I’d been weighed down by a secret for 57 years. That was too much for a small child to carry so far on her own...and for too long. The Truth Project helped me realise that it was not too late to set that burden down...and that it wasn’t mine to carry.
Being abused has had such an impact on my life and health but being able to share my story and know that somehow it just might make a positive difference to someone else brings some peace.
Knowing my experience will contribute to making a difference in preventing child sexual abuse in the future is very powerful and reassuring.
Anyone considering sharing their experience can get in touch with the Truth Project team, who can help answer any questions or concerns that they might have. They can also arrange for you to speak to a support worker to help prepare before sharing an experience, and to offer support for a period of time afterwards.
The Truth Project is closing in 2021, but for now it is still open for survivors of child sexual abuse to share their experiences in writing. Visit www.truthproject.org.uk to find out more.