Our Impact Stories
Sandy’s Story of Healing
Sandy* experienced childhood sexual abuse inflicted by a family member. Despite maintaining a facade of normality with marriage and a family, Sandy was silently struggling - experiencing dissociation, post-traumatic stress, and resorted to alcohol to cope.
With emotional support sessions, Sandy, who was initially sceptical of how RASASH could help, embarked on a journey towards healing. Although some doubt lingered, their commitment to “just one more” session became a lifeline. As time unfolded, Sandy witnessed incremental improvements, finding the strength to reveal more of themselves in each session.
These subtle victories transformed into pivotal milestones. With newly found confidence, Sandy joined a local singing group that became a place of refuge and offered a glimpse of a life that was not ruled by the abuse they endured. Empowered by support, Sandy reshaped their life - establishing boundaries at work, carving time for personal interests, and confronting the unresolved grief surrounding their parent’s death.
Sandy expressed appreciation for the non-judgmental, safe, and empowering environment at RASASH. Despite previously trying other therapeutic groups and services, Sandy shared that this was the first time they felt anything had truly ‘worked’ for them. Sandy’s story highlights the profound impact of person-centred, specialist support.
* Name changed to uphold confidentiality
Alex’s Path To Justice and Healing
Alex* was sexually assaulted by a stranger in a public place. Sharing this traumatic experience with their Social Care Worker, Alex was guided to reach out to RASASH’s Support Line.
Once connected with RASASH, Alex was linked with their Advocacy Service to navigate the complexities of reporting the assault. Initially hesitant about involving the Police, Alex found reassurance and understanding from their Advocacy Worker, who emphasised that the decision was entirely theirs to make.
After careful consideration, Alex chose to pursue justice and their Advocacy Worker facilitated the process, contacting the Police on their behalf and arranging for a statement to be taken in the safety of Alex’s home. Throughout this process, Alex’s Advocacy Worker remained by their side, offering support and ensuring they felt empowered.
As the Police investigation unfolded, Alex learned that her perpetrator was also charged with assaulting another person in a strikingly similar manner. Alex’s Advocacy Worker helped them grasp the legal nuances, in particular in cases where there are multiple victims.
Alex attended a video identity parade at the Police station, accompanied by their Advocacy Worker. The experience was distressing, but having support there to debrief afterwards provided a sense of comfort.
Alex’s Advocacy Worker continues to provide guidance and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of the legal process and works towards healing. In addition to legal support, Alex attended emotional support sessions provided by RASASH with plans for further session in the future .
Alex’s story underscores the vital role of Advocacy Services in empowering survivors of sexual assault, offering not only practical assistance but
* Name changed to uphold confidentiality
Jamie’s Story of Empowerment
Jamie’s* journey with RASASH began a few months after they endured a traumatic sexual assault by a peer at college. The assault happened while Jamie was just a teenager.
Jamie felt unable to travel to RASASH’s office in Inverness after the assault, but knew that online support would not work for them. RASASH was able to offer face-to-face support via its outreach service. An Outreach Worker travelled to Jamie’s hometown to meet them in a confidential place where they felt safe.
During their sessions, Jamie felt able to process the complex emotions they were feeling with their worker by their side. The RASASH worker helped Jamie to accept that the assault was not their fault and what they were feeling was a normal reaction to trauma.
The sessions also provided a safe space for Jamie to explore the possibility of reporting the assault, a decision that felt scary and overwhelming. Within this person-centred and confidential environment, Jamie felt able to navigate these considerations without the fear that the decision would be made for them.
Jamie’s engagement with RASASH extended beyond personal healing. It uncovered a deep-seated desire to speak out against sexual violence, gender inequality, and patriarchy - a newfound voice and activism that blossomed within the support sessions.
Content with finishing their emotional support sessions, Jamie planned to seek advocacy support from RASASH for reporting the assault. Jamie’s story reflects not only their personal growth and resilience but also highlights the transformative power of specialist emotional support and advocacy.
* Name changed to uphold confidentiality
