The truth: The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) in 2019 (6), found less than half of the children (42%) subjected to sexual abuse in Children’s Home and Residential Care Institutions reported it at the time. They cited fear of retribution by the institution, fear of the perpetrator and the fear of not being believed as reasons for not reporting. Of those who did report to someone in authority at the institution, most said their claims were denied, minimised or deflected.
The IICSA report (2019) (7) into Child Sexual Abuse within religious institutions found only around a third of children (32%) reported it at the time. Barriers to disclosure included the lack of a relationship with a trusted adult; feelings of shame and embarrassment; lack of education around sex and abuse; and fear of the power and influence of the religious community.
Again, where disclosures were made to a person in authority at the institution, many said that they were disbelieved, had their experiences of abuse minimised and little or no action was taken.
Children often do not tell because they are scared for themselves, their family or their pets due to threats made by the abuser; they worry they will be blamed or punished; or feel guilt or shame (Engel, 1990) (8).