Support Services for Children, Young People & Families

Bravehearts offers a range of support services for children and young people who have been impacted by child sexual abuse and their non-offending family members.

When a child or young person has made a disclosure of sexual abuse, it can also be an overwhelming time for a parent or carer. You might experience your own distressing emotions, like anger, sadness and feeling at a loss of how to help your child. Bravehearts’ support services are here to help.

At this critical time, knowing where to find the appropriate support can be difficult. It is equally important that you follow your obligation to report as soon as practically possible.

What support services are available?

A range of support services are available for children or young people and their non-offending family members who have been impacted by child sexual abuse. Some options to consider are:

• Counselling
• Protective behaviours education for you and your child or young person
• Parent support groups
• Family support

Who can refer you and/or your child or young person to a service?

Parents and carers can self-refer to some service providers. If in doubt, there is a range of services that will help you find the most appropriate support for you and your child or young person. Options to contact a support service may depend on your circumstances. Sometimes relevant authorities who have received a report (such as Child Safety and Police) might make a referral to a service. Alternatively, General Practitioners, community agencies and schools may support making a referral on your behalf.

Bravehearts is here to help

Contact Bravehearts’ Information and Support Line between 8.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday AEST on 1800 272 831. We can provide you with support and guidance on how to proceed with helping your loved one(s) and identifying which support service is right for you.