Child Sexual Abuse in Family Environment

According to the NSPCC, at least 64 children are sexually abused every day in England and Wales, with 86% of attacks taking place against females. Child sexual abuse also occurs within Muslim communities.  However, because of the 'cover up culture' abuse is often hidden and not reported to the police.  There is a tendency to blame female victims rather than the male offenders. Silence in the name of avoiding shame and preserving honour, is allowing men to continue operating with impunity, therefore fueling sexual violence against girls and women further. 

In most cases the abuser is known to the child e.g. step father, family friend, older cousin, older brothers, fathers and grandfathers, religious teacher. Adult survivors of sexual abuse have been disclosing abuse to us and some had been sexually abused by more than one perpetrator within the family. 

What to look for in Children
  • Nightmares / sleeping problems
  • Clingy / withdrawn
  • Bedwetting / Soiling
  • Fear of certain adults / places
  • Physical signs / Persistent tummy pains / urination
  • Inappropriate sexual play with toys
What to look for in Adults
  • Touching a child's genitals
  • Showing their genitals to child
  • Inappropriate play e.g. rubbing genitals against child
  • Inappropriately watching child undress / go toilet
  • Showing child pornography
  • Wanting to be with child alone inappropriately
 

Our Supporters