Call us now 01926 402 498
I Felt Heard After Sharing Historic Sexual Abuse
What is Historic Sexual Abuse
Non-recent, or historic* abuse is classed as non-recent after 28 days, whether it happened once or 100 times, any time after 28 days, whether it is a few weeks, months, years, or decades it is all classed as non-recent.
*This is the term that is used within the Criminal Justice System
This survivor’s story highlights how counselling can help people affected by historic sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed. With support from Safeline, they found a safe space to talk about their experiences and process the lasting impact of abuse.
My Story
I was referred to Safeline by an ISVA after I disclosed my historical sexual abuse from 40 years ago. I didn’t think anyone would care after so long, but they did. Safeline supported me in a way I have never experienced.
The first counsellor and I didn’t fit, and they were amazing in changing without any judgement, and my second counsellor was incredible. I felt listened to, heard and like they really understood. I needed a space to talk about all that had happened without someone being shocked.
I had so much that has never been said and I didn’t feel rushed ever. My counsellor helped me to work through so much and explore the deep impacts on my life that were still so complex even though the abuse had ended a long time ago. I never felt shame and could bring all I was, as I was.
I hit some very hard times in my close relationships during my counselling and it really was a weekly lifeline. I am so grateful for this wonderful person whose face I never saw, but felt so held by. I preferred the privacy of the telephone work as it allowed me to be comfortable and focus on what I was saying and feeling fully.