Blessies Birthday Fundraiser
Turning a Birthday Stream into Support for Survivors: Blessie Raises Over £400 for BSARCS
When Blessie returned to streaming on Twitch during her birthday week, she had a goal in mind: to raise awareness and funds for BSARCS, a charity that has supported her through some of the most challenging periods of her life.
What started as a fundraising target of £100 quickly grew into something much bigger. By the end of the week, Blessie had raised an incredible £402.69 for BSARCS through a combination of live streams, community support, and a JustGiving campaign.
Returning to Streaming for a Cause
Blessie had previously stepped away from streaming due to the impact of complex mental health difficulties linked to childhood trauma. Returning to Twitch was a significant step, and choosing to use her platform to support BSARCS made the experience even more meaningful.
Over the course of a week, Blessie streamed a variety of games, including Minecraft and Heavy Rain, while encouraging viewers to learn more about BSARCS and donate if they could. In the weeks leading up to the fundraiser, she promoted the campaign across her channels, created graphics using resources from the BSARCS website, and sought advice from others who had previously organised charity fundraising streams.
The fundraiser was also inspired by Blessie’s involvement in The Community of Kindness, a group dedicated to carrying out acts of kindness and encouraging others to pay them forward.
“For me, this was a perfect opportunity to not only do a kind act but pay it forward at the same time,” she says.
By combining her love of streaming with a cause close to her heart, Blessie was able to raise awareness of BSARCS’ work while bringing together a supportive community around a shared goal.
The Difference BSARCS Has Made
BSARCS has supported Blessie in several ways over the years. Initially, the charity helped her navigate a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
More recently, BSARCS helped her access Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Although she later transitioned to NHS services due to the complexity of her mental health needs, BSARCS played a vital role in helping her begin that journey.
Blessie also currently receives support from an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA), who is helping her through an ongoing court case.
Reflecting on the support available today, Blessie highlights how important specialist services are for survivors of all ages.
“When I was a child, there wasn’t the specific support available that there is now. BSARCS supports children and adults, and the work they do is huge.”
More Than Fundraising
Throughout the streams, Blessie’s focus wasn’t only on raising money. She wanted to help people understand the breadth of support that BSARCS provides, from reporting to court support through ISVA services, to specialist therapeutic interventions that help survivors heal from trauma.
BSARCS is the only specialist charity in Barnsley supporting both adults and children who have experienced sexual harm. Every year, the charity supports more than 1,500 individuals, providing practical, emotional, and therapeutic support to those who need it most.
A Community Effort
One of the most rewarding aspects of the fundraiser was seeing the community come together around a cause that mattered.
Although the original target was £100, donations continued to grow throughout the week, eventually reaching £402.69. The final 69 pence held a special significance for both Blessie and the wider community supporting the fundraiser.
As the total edged closer to its final amount, supporters agreed that ending on 69 pence carried a meaningful message: that sex should be associated with enjoyment, consent, and positive experiences—not trauma. What began as a light-hearted observation became a shared sentiment among those taking part in the fundraiser, reflecting a collective hope for a future where survivors are defined by their healing and recovery rather than the harm they have experienced.
The fundraiser reflected the spirit of paying kindness forward, with friends, viewers, and supporters coming together to help make a difference for survivors accessing BSARCS services.
The total raised will help BSARCS continue providing vital services to survivors across Barnsley and the surrounding areas.
Looking Ahead
After such a successful first fundraiser, Blessie is already thinking about the future.
“I’d love to do it again,” she says. “Maybe next time we’ll do some challenges.”
With a supportive network behind her and a community willing to get involved, there’s every chance that future fundraising events will be just as successful.
For Blessie, the fundraiser was about more than reaching a financial target. It was an opportunity to give back to a service that has supported her recovery, raise awareness of the help available to survivors, and show what can happen when a community comes together to make a difference.
Thank You from BSARCS
Everyone at BSARCS would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Blessie and everyone who supported this fundraiser.
Whether you donated, shared the campaign, joined a stream, or helped spread awareness of our work, your support will make a real difference to survivors across Barnsley and the surrounding areas.
Fundraising initiatives like this help us continue providing specialist support to adults, children, and young people affected by sexual violence and abuse. Every contribution helps us ensure that survivors can access the practical, emotional, and therapeutic support they need on their journey towards recovery.
We are incredibly grateful to Blessie for choosing to support BSARCS during her birthday week and for using her platform to raise awareness of the services we provide. Raising £402.69 is a fantastic achievement, and we are proud to have been part of her journey.
Thank you for helping us support survivors, promote healing, and create hope for the future.
We Are Recruiting
We are recruiting for a number of positions in our South Yorkshire ISVA service with opportunities based in Barnsley, Doncaster & Rotherham.
Click on the job title below for further details and a full role description.
Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA)
Children Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (CISVA)
Salary – £30,811 (pro rata for part-time positions)
The successful applicants will deliver a proactive, high-quality advocacy and support service to people who, having experienced sexual harm, may be accessing the criminal justice system.
To apply for any of these roles follow this link, making sure to tell us in your application which role(s) and location you wish to be considered for.
CVs will not be accepted.
Recruitment for the post is being managed by the SYSVP recruitment team, if you have any queries, you can email recruitmentSYSVP@bsarcs.org.
Closing date for applications is Monday the 31st August 2026 Interviews to be held in the week commencing 14th September 2026
Due to the nature of the work, these positions are subject to an enhanced DBS check and Police Vetting.
These positions, for genuine occupational requirement reasons, are open to female applicants only (exemption under the Equality Act 2010 Part 1 Schedule 9).
You are not alone
You are not alone
They told you no one would believe,
That truth would only make you grieve.
But silence isn’t strength, you see –
It’s time to set your spirit free.
You didn’t cause the pain you feel,
You didn’t break what they won’t heal.
The guilt they gave was never yours,
You’re not the one who closed those doors.
The thoughts you hide, the tears you fight,
Can haunt your days and steal your night.
While they move on without a care,
You’re left with burdens non should bear.
But there are hearts that truly know,
Who’ve walked through fire and faced the blow,
They’ll listen close, they’ll understand,
They’ll help you rise, they’ll take your hand.
Panic, flashbacks, dreams that sting –
Your body guards from everything,
But peace is waiting, soft and wide,
When you let truth no longer hide.
Speak your story, loud and clear,
Let go of shame, release the fear,
Be kind to you, don’t turn away –
You’re worthy of a brighter day.
There’s help, there’s hope, a path ahead,
Where joy returns and pain is shed,
You’re not too much, you’re not too late –
Your life is yours to celebrate.
So take a breath and make that call,
You’re not alone, not week, not small,
You’re brave, you’re strong, your rising still –
You’re free to heal, to dream, to feel.
Built from Ashes, Unbreakable
Built from Ashes, Unbreakable
I was eight, or maybe nine,
Still thought stars were mine to climb.
Then his hands, like poison smoke,
Stole the voice I never spoke.
Told my sister, trembling low,
She said, “You have to let them know.”
Police, the court, the therapy –
But nothing felt the same in me.
Saw him smile in town one day,
Mum stood still – what could we say?
Moved away to start again,
But pain found me in different men.
Locked away while time stood still,
Lonely days I couldn’t fill.
Trusted wrong, and paid the price,
Fell through silence, cracked like ice.
School, then work – slow steps ahead,
Still some days I wished me dead.
But friends pulled back the light I lost,
Held me hand through every cost.
Now I rise, not healed but whole,
Scarred by keeper of my soul.
What tried to burn me left a flame –
Built from ashes,
I remain.
Unbreakable
__________
Unstoppable
Unstoppable
(Inspired by my journey)
(Verse 1)
I was just a kid with a sky full of dreams,
Running wild, singing loud, bursting at the seams.
But a shadow came where light had been,
And silence wrapped around my skin.
Told the trust with trembling hands,
Watched the world not understand.
He walked free – I felt erased,
But I survived that shattered place.
___
(Pre – Chorus)
Every scar, every sleepless night,
Tried to dim my fire, steal my fight.
But even broken wings can soar,
And I’m not hiding anymore
___
(Chorus)
I’m unstoppable, you can’t bring me down.
Rising higher from the battleground.
Tried to break me, tried to chain my soul –
But I’m still here, still in control.
You thought I’d shatter, thought I’d fold –
But I’m unshaken, strong and bold.
I’m unstoppable.
(Verse 2)
Ran away to start again,
But pain came back dressed as a friend.
Lonely halls and bathroom floors,
Cried in silence, locked my doors.
Lost in darkness, numb for days,
Felt like life just slipped away.
But even in that quiet hell,
Something in me never fell.
___
(Bridge)
So here’s to the girl who didn’t give in,
To the ones who held me when I couldn’t win,
To the voices that reminded me –
My story isn’t tragedy
___
(Final Chorus)
I’m unstoppable, can’t dim my flame.
I’ve walked through fire and rose again.
Tried to crush me, tried to claim my light –
But I still stand, I still ignite.
You thought I’d break beneath the load –
But I’m unshaken. I won’t be told.
I’m unstoppable.
(Outro / Spoke or Sung softly)
Built from ashes, still I rise.
I’m not your victim – I define my life.
I’m shaken.
I’m unstoppable.
A Poem by Stacey
“I wrote a letter once crying for help but all I received was words of anger. Still to this day I think about that letter that could have saved me from what I am today if only they read the words with different eyes. This letter probably folded neatly in the bottom of their draw and something to be brought up to me as a shame somewhere in my future. A letter that holds so much of me just thrown aside without a thoughts of what it took to write. This letter is my memory that even those closest can see words of suffering chose to see a stupid act rather than a teenager crying inside begging to be held and loved and told the help I need is right where I need it.
I wrote a letter once and still I think about that letter every day and how my life could have changed if only the right person patiently read my words and knew the feeling of pain I was experiencing.
I wrote a letter once and completely ignored. I wish you all could see that letter and understand the feelings of that teenage girl who is still very much alive and deep inside me today.”
The Letter – By Sarah
Survivors complete many activities to raise funds for BSARCS after their support, we caught up with Sarah who coordinated a book signing and raffle event to raise money for our services, alongside dedicating her new book called “The Letter”. We spoke with Sarah about her amazing achievement:
“The Letter is my book that I have written with a co-writer Ann Cusack.
This book was difficult for me to write, and I wrote it, as it was my way of self-healing and getting my truth out there. Also, I want to share awareness that victims can get justice even with historical cases. I dedicated the book to BSARCS and did my book signing and raffle event, raising £500 for BSARCS, as Staff helped me get through some of my toughest times for over three years, right up to getting to trial. BSARCS deserve the recognition as my Advocate went above and beyond, without her support I would not be here today, she helped me get the justice I deserved. Thank-you so much.”
A total of £500 was raised by Sarah, which will support us to continue our work across Barnsley. If you are interested in finding out more about the book, you can do below:
Sarah Sidebottom was repeatedly raped by both her father and her brother as a child has secured justice thanks to a forgotten letter.
Sarah Sidebottom, 54, was raped and sexually abused by her father, Arthur William Bowditch, and her brother, Arthur Stephen Bowditch. They were jailed in 2022 for a total of 32 years.
The first attack, when she was just three and a half years old, left Sarah needing surgery to repair internal damage. A decades-old letter from her doctor proved crucial in securing a conviction for the abuse, which began almost 50 years ago.
Sarah, 54, now happily married and a mum of two, runs a charity for ex-army veterans with her husband, Darren, himself a former soldier, in Barnsley, South Yorks. She’s even been a guest at Buckingham palace in her charity role – a far cry from the suffering of her early years. Sarah also shares a special bond with her dog, Kayla, a German Shepherd, who saved her life when she felt unable to carry on.
She says: “I had no idea about the surgery until 2021, and I saw my medical records. I was horrified, but at the same time, this was exactly what the prosecution needed to build a case against my father. After staying silent for nearly 50 years, part of my healing process is having a voice and speaking out.”
You can purchase Sarah’s book here.
A survivors view of the court process
We had the honour of seeing Samantha speak at a conference a few months ago, where she shared her story and experiences. We got in touch with Samantha who has kindly wrote the letter below to share her experiences of court.
Before you read through the letter just a few things:
Here at BSARCS we are part of the South Yorkshire Sexual Violence Partnership, and we have Independent Sexual Violence Advocates (ISVA’s) who can support you from reporting right through to court, every step of the way described below, regardless of your age and gender. Find out more about our ISVA service here.
Samantha mentions the victim code below, you can find out more about the victim’s code here.
”
Hello
If you are reading this then you are have done the bravest thing in your life. Reporting someone who has abused/molested or raped you takes a lot of courage. I am very proud of you.
Let me tell you a bit about myself. I was born in 1972, I have a brother and two parents. From the age of 3 to 16 I was abused, and molested by my father, and although it’s not proved my mother was aware. My abuse was not violent and I grew up thinking this was very normal. Not all abuse is like that but this is my experience. After leaving home at 16, I eventually married and had 3 children. At various points in my life, I suffered from depression and several suicide attempts. In 2016 I decided to report my father for what he had done. This letter is my experience and insight into what this process may be like.
Feb 2016
Today is the day I’m going to report him, I’m going to tell the police what he did, I’m not sure what to expect. There have been so many cases in the press, what will they think…will they believe me? I’m not sure what to expect but today is the day I take control. I decide to visit one of the many support centres dedicated to victims of abuse (referred to as a SARC – Sexual Assault Referral Centre). I was made to feel very welcome and I was put at ease straight away. The worker explained she would contact the police and an initial statement would be taken. I’m very nervous but I know I’m doing the right thing. The interview was not like what I thought, the officer who took my statement was down to earth, made me laugh at some points. His questions were factual but he gave me loads of time to answer. I was unsure what words to use for body parts and how much detail I had to give but the officer was professional and asked relevant questions. This process took about 2 hours for me but it will vary from person to person. I had a support worker sit in with me which I found helpful because afterward, I had loads of questions. I was told an officer who specialised in investigating my type of crime would be allocated my case and someone would be in touch within the next few weeks. I was proud of what I had just done but also emotional. I would advise on the day you do this to arrange to have someone at home to support you and allow yourself time to process what you have done. Making a statement brings back memories and you can feel upset or angry. These are normal but remember you are doing the right thing and you have support every step of the way.
March 2016
An officer has contacted me. She will be investigating and looking after my case from start to finish. Sometimes the police refer to the investigating officer as the OIC (officer in charge). She explains the process and what’s going to happen next. I’m a bit scared and wonder if I’ve made the right decision, but I know there is no going back. The abuse is not my fault, it is a serious crime and he deserves to be punished. It’s explained I will be having a video interview. This can be done at one of the many support centres available for victims. They are nice and to be honest just look like an ordinary living room in someone’s house. I’m not given a timescale for when this happens. This type of crime takes a long time to investigate so patience is needed.
April 2016
I have arrived to give my video statement, I didn’t sleep last night, so worried about what to expect…what I should wear…what if I cry…or don’t cry…what if I forget something? Please don’t worry I can tell you these feelings are normal and the officer in charge will explain everything to you. My officer showed me the room, where the cameras were, and took me to meet the person overlooking the video interview. This person will take notes of the interview; remind the interviewing officer if they forget to ask a question as well as operating the interview equipment. I was put at ease and had a coffee and a chat before the interview started. Now I’m not going to lie, giving a statement is hard and very emotional. This might be the first time you have told anyone what you have experienced and suffered. You will be reliving memories you have hidden away and tried to bury. It’s ok to be upset, it’s ok to be scared, but what you are doing is courageous but most of all it’s the right thing to do. The officer will ask the relevant questions and check your understanding all the way through. If you aren’t sure of anything or don’t understand a question make sure you tell the officer – it is ok, they want you to tell them. Again make sure you have support when you get home and sometimes it’s a good idea to let your doctor know what you are going through. Professionals are there to support you in every way.
After completing the interview I’m told that the investigation will now take place. The officers in charge of your case will need to go through every bit of your statement, collate facts and information in preparation for an arrest. This can take weeks or months.
July 2016.
My father has been arrested, interviewed, and released on bail. I’m scared – what if he tries to contact me. I’m reassured that he has been given strict instructions (bail conditions) not to do this and could be remanded into police/prison custody if he was to try and contact me. The police keep me up-to-date with what has happened and briefly what he has said. You may find that you won’t be told anything about the interview. . The next few months I’m told will be about collecting evidence. This can take a very long time and at points can feel a little frustrating. Try not to put your life on hold, hard I know when it’s in your mind 24/7. Ask your officer to send you a little update each month, even if there’s nothing to report and inquiries are ongoing it’s peace of mind and reassurance that your case is not sat on a shelf. The police adhere to the ‘Victims Code’ and there are strict guidelines of when officers should keep victims updated, you can ask the OIC for a copy of the code.
Officers involved in historic child abuse are also dealing with ‘live cases’ which I’m sure you understand comes first. Make plans as normal. Have things to look forward to like a weekend away or events with your family or friends. Having something to focus on other than your case will also help. It may be that the time has come to share with family or friends what has happened or going through. You cannot do this alone and having support now and in the future will make a difference…trust me to have someone in a place you can talk over your concerns worries and fears.
Once the investigation is complete the police will complete an ‘Advice File’ which is sent to the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service). When CPS receives the advice file it is allocated to a specialist sexual offenses lawyer to review the file and make a charging decision. Only the CPS can decide if a perpetrator is charged, sometimes they request the police make further inquiries before they make a decision.
Feb 2017
It’s been a year since I first reported my abuse but today I got the news that my father has answered bail and has been charged with 9 offences. I’m emotional, scared, and not sure what to expect but I also know he will finally face the consequences for what he has done. Court proceedings move very slowly and I can expect a trial date in around 6 months. When your perpetrator is charged they will attend a first hearing at the Magistrate Court, this is so he or she can plead guilty/or not guilty. It is only brief and you do not need to attend.
April 2017
My father appears in Magistrates court and his case is adjourned for 4 weeks it can be sent to the crown court where a judge will preside over his case. I have lots of questions and worry why it’s taking so long but most crimes of this nature cannot be heard in a magistrate’s court. All crimes initially get sent to Magistrates court, this is our legal system and again patience is needed. Even if the perpetrator pleads guilty at the Magistrates court, it’s more than likely they will be sentenced at the Crown Court. The police and/or Witness Care should keep you updated about all court dates – regardless of whether you need to attend or not.
May 2017
My father pleads not guilty. A trial is set for Nov 2017…this is the point reality will hit you. It’s scary I know, but how fantastic and this is what all your bravery and hard work doing the statement has resulted in.
Be prepared for experiencing a range of emotions, you may want to talk about it all the time…keep everything to yourself…cry…not sleep well…go over the abuse in your mind…doubt you have it in you to go through with it. These feelings are normal and will pass. Remember you are brilliant, fantastic. You can do this!
As the trial date draws near the police will also ask you about making a victim personal statement (VPS) – this is a chance for you to explain to the judge the impact the abuse has had on your life. Sometimes the police also refer to this as a Victim Impact Statement – whichever term is used it means the same thing and the officer in charge will explain all the facts and give you information to read at home.
October 2017
The week before the trial I’m so very nervous, can’t sleep, and can’t eat. I visit my doctor who prescribes sleeping tablets for a few days. Witness care has been in touch to confirm everything. I’ve asked for a screen, my reason was that I didn’t want my father to see me. The police can request ‘Special Measures’ so you can give evidence to the best of your ability; Special Measures can be things such as giving in evidence in court behind a screen or being allowed to give evidence in a different courtroom – the police will talk you through all the available options and discuss the best one/s for you. Remember this is a very personal choice – there is no right or wrong – it’s about making the right decision for you.
I’ve been invited for a visit to court to see what the room looks like and what to expect. Take someone with you, this can feel very overwhelming and you may not remember all the questions that have been going around your head the last few weeks. Write them down and don’t be afraid to ask. The witness support volunteers are fantastic and experience your concerns and worries every day. They are not there to know details about your case but to support you in the lead-up and during the trial.
The night before the trial.
Witness care has rung; my case has been postponed due to lack of court space. I’m heartbroken and frustrated, I did not expect this. Sometimes trials will overrun into a new week so planned trials have to be postponed. I am not told when a new date will be. This is hard to deal with as I’ve been building up to this moment for a year and a half. Police remind me this will happen and I’m doing brilliantly.
The trial is set for 3 weeks.
December 2017
My case has been adjourned till June 2018. I just feel like giving up but I can’t I’ve come this far. Sometimes cases are adjourned due to reasons beyond anyone’s control, new evidence, lack of evidence, witnesses, and court staff being ill. This happens in rare cases but be prepared that not every trial happens on the 1st date.
June 2018
It’s nearly been 2 and half years but today my trial started, I’ve got loads of support but found messages and calling several people with the same updates tiring. Maybe have a group chat you can add everyone to send 1 update or maybe have a friend or family member do this for you.
Be prepared for lots of waiting around, take some snacks and drinks and books or a hobby. Every minute will seem like hours and trying to distract yourself will help.
Now I’d like to say that giving evidence in court is going to be ok…this is the hardest thing you will ever do, it will bring every emotion possible up. But…you are amazing. You have come this far and you can do this. You have the full support of the police, friends, and family and once your evidence is over the hard bit is done. Be so proud of yourself.
At some point during the trial, you may be asked if you would like to read a victim impact statement. This is a statement from you that outlines, not what abuse you have suffered, but how the abuse has affected you during your life. The statement is personal and maybe the only chance for your perpetrator to hear what you have always wanted to say. The choice is up to you and you can read it in court if you like or your barrister can read it on your behalf.
I chose to read my impact statement on the day of sentencing. It is a very different emotional feeling to giving evidence. For me, it was a final release to be able to say what I’ve always felt inside.
Give yourself time to decide if you would like to do this and time to write how you are feeling. There is no rush.
After 6 days my father was charged and sentenced. I’m 1 of the lucky ones, not every case gets to court, and not every case is going to be found guilty. I wish I could wave a magic wand and tell you what the outcome will be but I will say this.
YOU DID NOT DESERVE THE ABUSE YOU HAVE SUFFERED. THE MONTHS OR YEARS OF BLAMING YOURSELF, THE TEARS YOU HAVE CRIED THE ANGUISH YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH. YOU ARE A VICTIM AND YOUR PERPETRATOR DESERVES TO BE PUNISHED. YOU WILL GET THROUGH THIS AND REGARDLESS OF THE OUTCOME YOU ARE BRAVE AND COURAGEOUS AND YOUR DECISION TO REPORT THEM HAS GIVEN YOU BACK CONTROL. YOU ARE AMAZING AND THIS WILL NOT DEFINE YOUR LIFE.
I WISH YOU THE BEST OF LUCK IN YOUR JOURNEY
Love Me”
Brave Survivor Speaks Out
A Barnsley woman has bravely waived her right to lifelong anonymity after her abuser was jailed for more than a decade.
Trevor Lockwood, 44, was found guilty of four counts of rape following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court in October 2024. He was sentenced at the same court yesterday (24 February 2025) where he received 13 years in prison.
The court heard how Lockwood was in a relationship with Kimberley between 2003 and 2014. In 2022, Kimberley bravely reported to South Yorkshire Police that, during the relationship, Lockwood had raped her on a number of occasions after she had gone to sleep.
Kimberley would wake up in the middle of the night to find Lockwood forcing himself on her and engaging in sexual activity she had not consented to. She would tell Lockwood to stop what he was doing, but he would ignore her pleas and forcibly continue.
Lockwood blamed is abhorrent behaviour on his drug use and often claimed he did not know why he did what he did.
Kimberley Dyson, 41, feels “very passionate about my decision to waive my anonymity” and says she wants “other victims of sexual abuse to see experiences of sexual harm and abuse are nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about”.
“Today’s sentencing hearing has been a long time coming. I feel very passionate about my decision to waive my anonymity. Despite years of feeling deep shame around the abuse I experienced, I am finally learning to accept that none of this was my fault.
“I want other victims of sexual abuse to see that experiences of sexual harm and abuse are nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. The abuse I endured for over a decade at the hands of Trevor Lockwood has impacted almost every area of my life, and although no sentence will be enough for the trauma I am left with, I am glad that this case is finally over and that I am able to start my process of healing.
“I want to take this opportunity to commend the hard work of Detective Sergeant Laura Clarke of South Yorkshire Police who has worked tirelessly on the investigation to secure this conviction and finally bring Trevor to justice. I also want to acknowledge the support I have received from my Independent Sexual Violence Advisor, Jess, at Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services, from the moment I reported and throughout the process.
“The support this service provides is vital for victims during the criminal justice process and without the support and encouragement I received from Jess to keep fighting, I am not sure how, or if, I could have got this far.
“Trevor took so many years of my life, but today I close the chapter on this ordeal and start to live my life as it always should have been”.
If you have experienced sexual harm and want to find out more about how our ISVA service can support you then please find out more here.
Read more new about Kimberley’s story below:
Barnsley is Asking the Question about sexual harm
Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Services (BSARCS), in partnership with BMBC, has launched a borough wide campaign called “Ask the Question”. This is the first whole town initiative across the UK and is aimed at helping residents to lose the stigma of sexual harm.
People who have experienced sexual abuse often feel like they are silenced and unable to talk about what happened, carrying the weight of the abuse whilst the perpetrator receives no sanction at all. Nationwide, there has been a significant move to improve responses to sexual harm and there is recognition of how not supporting people can lead to negative life outcomes.
Supported by national services including the Centre for Expertise in Childhood Sexual Abuse and The Survivors Trust, BSARCS has trained over …..Barnsley professionals to ‘ask the question’ in order to support people with their experience. Following the training, Barnsley residents will be able to speak openly about sexual harm if they wish to, as services such as mental health, GP’s, domestic violence and drugs/alcohol will be ‘asking the question’.
BSARCS CEO, Lynne Casserly, said,
“We are really proud to be leading the first whole town initiative which will help people manage the pain and impact of sexual abuse. This Barnsley initiative is in its very early stages and already 20% of people asked said they have experienced sexual harm, often in childhood. The impact on people receiving appropriate support can be huge, with positive change in mental health, a reduction in suicide attempts and use of drugs/alcohol dependency. Enabling people to talk, to understand the impact of the trauma they have gone through and to truly believe it wasn’t their fault will really change lives for the better.”
1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will have experienced sexual harm at some point in their life. BSARCS works with 1750 Barnsley adults and children each year. If you or someone you know have been impacted by sexual harm at any time in your life, you can reach out to BSARCS on 01226 320140, or find out more about what BSARCS offer on their website www.bsarcs.org.uk.
To find our more about Ask the Question initiative visit the Ask the Question webpage
Download your Barnsley is Asking the Question posters below:
- Barnsley is asking the question 1
- Barnsley is asking the question 2
- Barnsley is asking the question 3
- Barnsley is asking the question 4
