A campaign urging awareness of the warning signs of child sexual abuse has been launched in Stirling this week.
‘What If You’re Right?’, led by Child Protection Committees Scotland and the charity Barnardo’s Scotland, is a movement encouraging people across the country to see the signs of child sexual abuse and report it when recognised.
The public is being asked to properly listen and assess if the child is okay- and to take action if there is any suspicion of abuse.
The project has input from adult survivors of child sexual abuse. They have highlighted both the immediate and long-term impact of sexual abuse in their former years.
“I don’t remember a time where I wasn’t abused, where I wasn’t touched, where I wasn’t made to do things.”
Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Convener, Cllr Margaret Brisley has emphasised the importance of the campaign, urging adults not to their concerns and to speak up despite their fears.
Cllr Brisley said: “Trauma experienced as a result of child sexual abuse can ruin lives.
“It’s everyone’s job to keep children safe from harm… We all need to play our part to help limit the long-term damage child sexual abuse can cause. Don’t wait for someone else to take action, report concerns yourself.
“Yes, it can be scary to speak up, but we need to be brave and not ignore signs.
“If you fear that a child is in immediate danger, you should call Police Scotland right away.”
Vicci is a survivor involved in the campaign. She endured abuse from her extended family for many years from a very young age.
Her experiences made her suffer suicidal ideation, hospitalisation and intense trust issues: “I struggle with a fear of never knowing who’s round the next corner… when those people, the abusers, have told you that they love you but then hurt you terribly, how do you then trust other people?”
If you are concerned a child may be experiencing abuse, you can visit the Child Protection Scotland website.
Stirling Council’s child protection team can also be contacted here.
There is further information on recognising the signs of child sexual abuse here, a site hosted by Barnardo’s.
Feature image credit: @childprotectsco on Instagram
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