Childhood Sexual Abuse

Childhood sexual abuse can happen to anyone and can be perpetrated by males, females and even other children. Child sex abuse can take many forms and include: sexual touching, indecent exposure, sexual intercourse or penetration, exposure to pornographic material, grooming, and on-line grooming.

Children naturally trust adults but when that trust is betrayed it can leave children confused and upset. Victims of childhood sexual abuse can often experience difficulties and problems as adults in later life.

These can include depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, difficulties in trust, relationship issues, sleep disorder, eating disorders, self-harm, self-destructive behaviour, or drug and alcohol misuse.