The Chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, Professor Alexis Jay OBE will meet with over 80 delegates from organisations including the police, NHS, local authorities and charities from across the north east and Yorkshire to raise awareness of the Truth Project in York today.
The Truth Project gives victims and survivors of child sexual abuse the chance to share their experiences and offer suggestions to the Inquiry on how to keep the next generation safe.
Professor Jay will say she wants to collaborate with organisations that have local expertise working with victims and survivors.
The north east was one of the first regions to open the Truth Project in June 2016. So far, over 700 people have now come forward across England and Wales and the Inquiry has taken accounts from victims and survivors in the north west, Wales, the south west and London.
In October, the Inquiry will hold a public lecture and publish a report on the voices of victim and survivors from the Truth Project.
Inquiry Chair Professor Alexis Jay OBE said:
“It is a privilege to meet so many organisations in York today that share our goal of tackling the appalling crime of child sexual abuse.
“The Truth Project is open in the north east and we are ready to listen to victims and survivors whoever they are, wherever they are. We do not underestimate the courage it takes to come forward but we would encourage victims and survivors to help us learn from the experiences of the past.”
Daniel Wolstencroft, a member of the Victims and Survivors Consultative Panel said:
“Speaking as a victim and survivor I can assure you that if you meet with the Truth Project you will be treated with dignity and respect. You will be listened to, not just heard.
“I'm proud of those victims and survivors who have already come forward. They are giving the Inquiry crucial information that may help to keep all our kids safe in future."