Ask the Expert: Discussing abuse

There has been a lot of discussion recently about rape, abuse and inappropriate behaviour among the young people I work with. Are such discussions to be encouraged?

Media coverage of the Jimmy Savile revelations and associated investigations have prompted many conversations on the issues, policies and practices that led to the abuse of so many children and young people. It has also encouraged many victims to come forward. In the 1970s the issue of abuse was an embarrassment that made disclosure difficult, if not impossible. Thankfully, there has since been some shifting in attitudes.

If the subject is a regular topic of debate I would encourage that by turning it into a project. Promote discussion, challenge silence and track how your organisation would deal with disclosure, and whether policy and practice work in favour of the young people. Involve them in a review of policy, looking at what can be changed to make the system robust. They could create posters, and advertise helplines and points of contact. This will help create a culture of support, openness, and safety.

Answered by Tracie Trimmer-Platman, senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London