Alex's Answer

Hi there, thank you for contacting Ask Alex.

 

It’s very brave of you to contact us as we know it’s not always easy for young people to talk about sexual violence. But we want you to know that assault is not okay, and we are concerned for your well-being. If you are ever in immediate danger or harm, you can contact emergency services on 999 or 112 from any mobile or landline, free of charge.

 

You have told us that you have been sexually assaulted and are now being bullied by your abuser. You have taken the first step in seeking help, and that is really difficult, so well done. It would be best that you seek some advice and support from someone you can trust. We know this can be a really hard thing to do, but it should be a trusted adult, as they will be best placed to help you through this difficult time. If you don’t want to talk to a parent, do you have any other relatives that you could talk to, or even a youth worker or a teacher?

 

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.

 

You do not have to go through this alone. If you feel that you cannot talk to somebody you know just yet, then Childline is here for you, and we would really love to be there for you. At Childline, we are focused on you and what is important to you. Our services are free and available 24 hours a day. The team does not judge anything you say. You can contact us through our telephone service by calling 1800 66 66 66, or you can start a Live Chat on www.childline.ie by clicking on the Orange Tab on the right-hand side of your screen.

 

Take care of yourself, we hope to hear from you soon,

 

Alex