Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
101807 | Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine | 2014 | 4 Pages |
•The psychosocial aftercare following sexual assault in children in England could be greatly improved and access widened. Independent sexual assault advisors and social services support are available but psychological therapy, counselling, specialist behavioural and educational support are insufficient.•Little support is available locally and nationally for parents or carers of children who have been sexually abused, although they are often in need of psychological support themselves.•The aftercare of children and their families should be managed by a multidisciplinary team with good communication between relevant professionals.•Support for victims and their families should be less reliant on local charities and voluntary organisations whose funds are limited, and a structured, national system with minimum standards introduced.
The Lancashire Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) centre in Preston saw 204 children aged 16 and under for examination following allegation of sexual assault in 2013. The psychological impact on the child is well known but not always addressed correctly or appropriately; the impact and resulting difficulties faced by the parent/carer of the child can also easily go un-noticed.Mrs A attended the centre with her 2 year old daughter in 2013, where I was the crisis worker in the case. She was contacted five months later and the support they received after attending the centre discussed. Her experiences, along with my own anecdotal experiences are discussed. Independent Sexual Assault Advisors (ISVAs) offer support following attendance at the centre, and various charitable organisations offer counselling, emotional and practical support. Health visitors, paediatricians, school nurses and social workers also play a role in looking after children and families following allegations of assault. However, the organisations and agencies involved in psychological aftercare for victims and parents are hindered by strict referral criteria and lack of funding or appropriate specialist expertise. The psychological, educational and behavioural support for parents and children, and specifically pre-trial counselling for children need significant improvement if we are to offer the best support for victims.