UNITED KINGDOM
Independent

The Catholic Church has systematically tried to discredit and silence sex abuse survivors, while forgiving the perpetrators

Phil Johnson

Unless you have been a victim of childhood sexual abuse it is difficult for people to understand the often life-long impact that it can have. Survivors suffer low self-esteem, guilt, shame and often have mental health problems which can lead to addiction and even suicide.

When that abuse is committed by a priest, it is compounded by the abuse of power as well as being linked to the victim’s faith. This often leaves survivors conflicted and more vulnerable to being exploited by church authorities who seem to be prone to forgiving the abusers and blaming the victims.

The vast majority of children do not report their abuse at the time, most of those who disclose or seek help do so well into adulthood. When they do report…