Child Wise

Being confronted with the possibility that a child may be being sexually abused is difficult. It is common for people to think that there must be some mistake, or attempt to downplay the seriousness of what they have seen or been told. It may also be difficult to believe that someone you know, and perhaps have trusted, could possible be abusing a child. Above all else, many people struggle to know what they should do and how they can help.

If you do suspect that a child is being sexually abused, do trust your instincts. You don’t need concrete proof to enlist support in investigating your suspicions.

Likewise, if a child or young person has told you that they are being sexually abused, be sure to tell them that have done the right thing by telling you. You may be the only person that they have told, and represent their best chance of putting an end to the abuse.

You can find information about sexual abuse, how to identify the signs, how to respond if a child discloses and information about how child sex offenders target children by downloading our Speak Up Booklet.

You can also speak to one of our trained counsellors for support during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) call us on 1800 99 10 99 (inside Australia) or email us.

If you require immediate assistance outside of business hours, use our Self Help Guide to look for Support Services in your local area that can help you.