Under 18 Support for parents
For lots of really useful information, please read the leaflet here.
If your child has been raped or sexually assaulted it can be difficult to know how to react and how to support them. Even though it may feel daunting it is possible for you to be a good source of support for your child.
Rape and sexual assault will have an emotional impact on your child but it is also likely to impact upon you. As a parent you may experience a range of emotions such as shock, anger, horror at what they have experienced and a general sense of helplessness. You may also feel angry if you feel that he or she has acted irresponsibly.
You might also feel guilty about what happened and blame yourself for not being able to protect them. In the weeks after the assault you may feel frustrated that your child is not reacting in the way you would expect them to or would consider ‘normal’ following a sexual assault.
All of these emotions and thoughts can feel overwhelming and difficult to manage while still supporting them. The rest of this booklet contains information and suggestions that could help you to understand their needs, and provide effective support.