It is so crucial that survivors feel heard, believed, understood. Participating in activism using my own firsthand experience of child sexual abuse has aided my recovery in a few ways, and I feel that all survivors – if and when they feel ready – could benefit from turning full circle on their experiences to help others.

I approach this in a few different ways, the most recent being my YouTube channel. I also write and speak on survivor issues, and fully support the notion of mandatory reporting – that is, that there should be a legal obligation for professionals to report known or suspected child abuse to a local authority (there is currently no such law – more on this later!).

Today’s entry is inspired by a meeting I attended this afternoon about the value of young voices. Although the event was hosted by Fixers, who empower young people to tackle any issue they feel strongly about, I think that the value of voice takes on a whole new level of significance for survivors of sexual abuse.