AUSTRALIA
ABC News
By Ursula Malone
More than a quarter of people calling a helpline for adult survivors of child abuse are now over the age of 60, a leading support group says.
The figures have been released to mark Blue Knot Day, which aims to raise awareness of the estimated five million Australians who have suffered childhood trauma and abuse.
“We’re seeing more people in older age groups coming forward, and what we believe that relates to is the Royal Commission (into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse),” said Dr Cathy Kezelman, President of Adults Surviving Child Abuse.
“Older people who may have kept this secret their entire life are now ringing up and reaching and seeking help.
“We have people in their 80s ringing our line and saying they have never told a soul, but then hearing how it has profoundly affected their life.”
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