Alex's Answer

Hi there, and well done for reaching out to Ask Alex, 

We are so sorry that you have had this experience. It must have been so scary for you. You have told us that you have been sexually assaulted and are now being told that if you tell anyone that they will hurt your family. You have taken the first step in seeking help and that is really difficult.  

You have the right to seek support and help and no one else ever has the right to threaten you or assault you in anyway. It is best that you seek some advice and support from someone you can trust, we know this is a really hard thing to do. This should be an adult, as they will be best placed to help you through this difficult time. You deserve to be safe and protected from harm and an adult can help you get the supports in place for you to make this happen. This could be from a parent, a care giver, or adult relative.  

You might want to look at other organisations that offer services regarding sexual assault such as the National Sexual Violence Specialist, you can visit their website here: www.rcni.ie, or the Rape Crisis Centre: www.drcc.ie/services/helpline/. Túsla and the HSE (Health Service Executive) also have information on sexual assault and ways to seek treatment for sexual assault cases, their websites are www2.hse.ie/sexual-assault-treatment-units/ and www.tusla.ie . If you require urgent assistance/are in immediate danger, please call the emergency services for free on 112 or 999.  

Alternatively if you would like to anonymously speak to a trusted adult, Childline would be more than happy to speak to you and support you in what you are going through. You can call us on 1800 66 66 66 or you can talk to us on our Webchat service by clicking on the Orange Tab on the right-hand side of your screen.  

Take care of yourself,  

Alex