*CONTENT WARNING* In the wake of the Huw Edwards sentencing news, I (and the woman bravely sharing her story here) decided it was really important we share this now.
Anonymous discovered her husband was a paedophile following a 7.30am police raid at their house. Together they had a 3 year old daughter. She was also pregnant with her 2nd at the time. Despite thousands of downloads of indecent images including children under 3, he has not yet been charged and remains in the community. She has been warned it may take 18 months to 3 years to secure a conviction.
Identities are anonymous to protect the victims in this episode.
When she approached me to share her story, initially I was nervous - I certainly don't want to turn their traumatic family tragedy into entertainment, but she assured me she has had support and therapy and feels strongly that 1) we need to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our children and 2) the shame is absolutely not hers or her daughters' to carry.
With this episode I wanted to create a safe space and take the opportunity to provide as many resources as we can to help parents learn how to protect their children from child sexual abuse (CSA).
Reporting CSEA - always call the police (999 UK) if you have immediate concerns about the safety of a child
Registered sex offender data - requests under Sarah's Law
NSPCC learning: Protecting children from sexual abuse
HearMe initiative - a secure online service to disclose abuse
NSPCC report: Community approach to preventing child sexual abuse
10 ways to prevent child sexual exploitation online
CSA Centre Research & Resources
*This podcast is educational and informational only, sharing one victim's story & experience. It does not provide legal, medical, or other advice. Contact the appropriate professionals*
","author_name":"Briony Langley-Miles"}