The revictimisation of sexual violence victim-survivors via informal disclosure

• In Event: Addressing Gender and Sexual Victimization

Abstract

Most research and policy debate on sexual violence focuses on criminal justice responses to victim-survivors, yet victim-survivors are more likely to disclose informally (Home Office 2021). Informal disclosure responses can have a profound impact on victim-survivors in terms of ‘healing’ and subsequent disclosure/help-seeking. Whilst research has captured the ways in which victim-survivors needs are not met via formal disclosure, less is known regarding how victim-survivors felt heard, validated and understood by informal disclosure recipients and the impact of such responses, particularly marginalised victim-survivors. This paper draws upon the voices and experiences of 30 victim-survivors of child sexual abuse, sexual assault and rape to illustrate the various ways in which the need to be heard, validated and understood can be fulfilled by informal disclosure recipients in relation to: the affirmation of experience(s) and impact; active listening; empathy and compassion; ‘tailored’ support; continued support and a willingness to learn; and being emotionally available and present.

HM Government. 2021. Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls. London: Home Office.

Authors

• Jade Bloomfield-Utting, University of Bath

• Tina Nicola Skinner, University of Bath