The Inquiry is encouraging victims and survivors of child sexual abuse to share their experience with the Truth Project before its conclusion in October 2021.
Launched in 2015, the Truth Project provides a safe and supportive environment for survivors to share their accounts and put forward suggestions for change, in order to better protect children now and in the future.
It has heard from almost 5,000 people so far, all of whom have made an important contribution to the work of the Inquiry. Accounts shared are analysed for research and help inform recommendations for change to Government and other institutions.
Participants have described feelings of empowerment and catharsis after coming forward, with one saying, “I felt listened to, heard and my opinions and story were valued... I learnt things about myself too and I am so glad I did it.”
A final awareness-raising campaign will be launched this month to ensure as many survivors as possible are aware of the opportunity to share with the Inquiry, with advertisements running until December 2020.
The Truth Project is drawing to a close next year while the Inquiry completes its investigations and research work. This is so all of the experiences shared can be used to inform the findings and recommendations in the Inquiry’s final report, due to be published in 2022.
For sessions in person, participants will need to register their interest by the end of November 2020. Those who want to share via telephone or video call are asked to get in touch by the end of April 2021, while written accounts will be welcomed until mid-October 2021.
More information about sharing your experience is available on the Truth Project website.
Dru Sharpling, Panel member and head of the Truth Project, said:
“When we launched the Truth Project in 2015, we said it was time for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse to be heard. I am pleased that thousands of people have now come forward and made a vital contribution to this Inquiry.
“Although the Truth Project is drawing to a close next year, for now we are still here to listen, learn and help create a safer future for children. I would encourage anyone considering participating to register their interest and find out more.”
Chris Tuck, a member of the Inquiry’s Victims and Survivors Consultative Panel, said:
“The Truth Project enabled me to turn a negative part of my life into something positive, by finally giving me the opportunity to be listened to without judgement.
“The Truth Project is a once in a lifetime opportunity for anyone who has been sexually abused as a child to be heard, so that together we can help protect future generations. This is why I and many others have used our voices and shared our lived experiences.”