Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about healing from sexual abuse.
Some common questions survivors, just like you have asked us
Here are some common questions survivors we've worked with have asked.
Creating a safe environment involves identifying and minimising potential triggers, establishing healthy boundaries, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.
No. Sexual violence is never your fault, no matter the circumstances.
No. Reporting is your choice, and support is available whether you report or not
Only if and when you’re ready. You control what you share and when. We will equip you with tools along your journey.
That’s okay. Trauma can affect memory. You will still be believed and supported.
The Healing Process
There’s no set timeline — healing looks different for everyone and can take time.
Many survivors do find peace and joy again. Healing is possible, even if it doesn’t mean going back to how things were before.
Yes, completely. These are common trauma responses and part of how the brain protects us.
Trauma can have lasting effects. It's normal to feel ongoing impacts, and support can help at any stage.
Therapy helps many people, but healing can also come through support groups, creativity, connection, and self-care. You decide what works for you..
Seeking Help and Support
We aim to make initial contact with you within 2 days of receiving your referral.
If you’re struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or just want someone to talk to — that’s reason enough. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Yes. Most support is confidential, we'll explain clearly if there are any limits (like safeguarding concerns) when we do your assessment
That’s okay. You don’t need to have the right words — we've worked with thousands of survivors, and understand how hard it is to ask for help
Absolutely. You can access support at any time, whether or not you’ve told anyone or reported what happened..
Coping with Trauma
Trauma is the emotional and psychological response to a deeply distressing event. It can affect your thoughts, feelings, relationships, and physical health — sometimes immediately, sometimes later.
No. While trauma can have lasting effects, many people find ways to feel safe, empowered, and connected again — with time, support, and self-compassion.
Yes. These are all common and valid responses to trauma. Everyone reacts differently, and all responses are normal.
We will help you develop grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and tools that work for you to manage in the moment
Gentle routines, physical movement, creative activities, and connecting with safe people can support healing. Avoiding isolation and seeking support are also key.
Moving Forward
As you move forward in your healing journey some of these frequently asked questions, which will hopefully help to make you feel less alone
Trust can be rebuilt gradually, often starting with yourself. It’s okay to take your time and set boundaries that protect your wellbeing.
Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. Small, consistent steps — supported by compassionate care and supportive people around you — can help you regain a sense of safety, identity, and purpose.
Yes! a vital part of healing includes reclaiming your future. You deserve to pursue joy, connection, and ambition on your terms
Not everyone will, but that does not invalidate your experience. Actively seek out spaces and people who honour your truth and respect your healing journey.
This is different for everyone. Moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting (or having to forgive) — it means finding ways to live meaningfully, with your experiences acknowledged, not erased.
Survivor Resources & Research
Learning from other survivors journeys can be a powerful tool, and make you feel much less alone. Access specialist articles, survivor stories, and evidence-based research about childhood sexual violence recovery and support.
Articles and guides covering trauma responses, recovery stages, and practical support strategies for survivors of childhood sexual violence.
A curated collection of poems written by survivors of sexual abuse, sharing personal experiences of trauma, healing, and recovery. *Please note that whilst this content is moderated you may find some of it triggering so please take care*
Key findings from our research , revealing crucial insights into sexual violence and abuse, how survivors access support services, costs to the NHS and survivor experiences, and more
With your support, we can help more survivors access the support they need when they need it. Every donation directly funds our work to supporting those affected by sexual violence.
