ABUSERS STEAL CHILDHOODS. A CHILD'S BEST DEFENCE IS YOU.

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TRIGGER WARNING: The following contains discussion of child sexual abuse. If you need support, please contact Bravehearts’ Information and Support Line on 1800272 831 (Mon-Fri, 8:30am - 4:30pm AEST). 

JANE'S STORY

'I feel like my childhood was stolen from me'

I was sexually abused when I was a child by a close family member. Though the abuse happened decades ago, I still feel shame, anger, confusion and anxiety when I think about this person and my childhood.

Like so many survivors of childhood trauma, I feel like my childhood was stolen from me. The good memories I have of being a kid are often clouded by thoughts of my abuser and what he took from me. 
That’s why I want to do everything in my power to prevent this from happening to any more children.

‘I was in constant survival mode’

As a child, I was in constant survival mode – always thinking of ways to avoid being alone with my abuser. I never really had a chance though, since my abuser was one of my caregivers and had unrestricted access to me. 

If my mother had known what signs to look out for back then, then perhaps my story would have been different. If I had known that my body belonged to me and that no secret was so yucky that I couldn’t tell someone about it, I may have had the courage to stand up to my abuser. 

'You have the power to enact change'

Children are being sexually abused in this country at alarming rates. Research shows 1 in 4 Australians have experienced child sexual abuse.

We must fight to protect Australian children by doing everything we can as individuals and supporting those on the front line like Bravehearts.

Organisations like Bravehearts and personal safety education programs like Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure, which teaches young children about body safety, just didn’t exist when I was a child. Thank goodness times have changed.

You have the power today to enact change, by supporting Bravehearts' vital prevention work. JOIN THE FIGHT against child sexual abuse by making a tax-deductible donation today.

learn more about bravehearts' vital work

For over 26 years, Bravehearts has been working to prevent and treat child sexual abuse - a crime that is experienced by 1 in 4 Australian children. Every day, thanks to the support of people like you, we’re able to make significant strides towards a safer world for our children.

Learn more about the vital work of Bravehearts and become a supporter today!