Deaf survivors of child sexual abuse asked to share their experiences

Deaf victims and survivors of child sexual abuse can share their experience with the Truth Project in person again, following its relaunch in line with Covid-19 guidelines.

The Truth Project offers victims and survivors of child sexual abuse the chance to share their experiences and be heard with respect.

The project was launched by Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in 2015 and will be used to advise government and organisations on how they can protect children from sexual abuse in the future by understanding how they failed them in the past.

Everyone involved in the sessions will be given a visor to wear, social distancing will be in place and hand sanitiser will be available. Sessions are delivered by Deaf people in British Sign Language (BSL) or in the participant’s preferred communication style.

Deaf people can still choose to share their experience via video call or in writing if they prefer. Those who choose an in-person session will also be asked for their second preferred option, in case the government guidance changes and the session cannot take place.

To date, more than 5,000 people have taken part. All of the experiences shared so far will be used to inform the findings in the Inquiry’s final report, due to be published in 2022.

Deaf people will be able to share with the Truth Project until October 2021, but should get in touch as soon as possible to arrange a session.

For more information about the Truth Project in BSL and support to register, Deaf people can contact SignHealth by video, email or text.

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