Danielle must tell her parents what happened. It won’t be easy, but perhaps writing down exactly what happened will make it clearer. Hopefully, Danielle’s parents will believe her, although they will be shocked to discover what their ‘friend’ has done. They may report his behaviour to the police, to stop him from doing the same thing to other young girls, and will almost certainly ensure that he stays away from the house and the family in future.

Occasionally, adults have a hard time believing that things like this can happen. This can leave a young victim feeling very lost, alone and vulnerable. If this happens to Danielle, she should try to understand that her parents are struggling with feelings of guilt, fear and disbelief. Sometimes, it is easier to blank out something scary rather than accept that it happened and deal with the fallout, but in time the truth will sink in. Meanwhile, Danielle can find support by calling ChildLine on 0800 1111 – they will listen, and they really can help.

Nobody, not even a trusted adult, has the right to make you do anything you are not happy to do, or to touch you in ways that make you feel uncomfortable, guilty or bad. Sometimes, the adult may be someone you know well and love, or even, rarely, someone in your own family, and that is very tough. Remember that these things are wrong and find the courage to speak out and get some help and support. If you are not believed right away, go on speaking out until someone listens and helps you.

Sexual abuse wrecks lives. If an abuser goes unreported, he may go on targeting young people and many more lives will be damaged. Don’t stay silent… help is out there, I promise.

Broken Families

Please help, Cathy

My mum and dad have just split up. My dad was having an affair and my mum is so angry she won’t let us speak about him or see him. It’s like she wants to wipe him out of our lives. I know what he did was awful, but he’s still my dad and I miss him.

Connie, age 13

Cathy

My dad left a few years ago and has never been good at staying in touch. Now he is going to live in the US and I might never see him again. Mum says ‘Good riddance’. I do love my mum, but is it so wrong to want a dad as well?

Joelle, age 11

Divorce and separation doesn’t have to be the end of the world, but it can feel that way. And sometimes, if the split is messy, the hurt can go on long after the marriage is over.

Connie is in a difficult situation. Her mum is still very hurt and angry, and is trying to forget that her ex ever existed. This isn’t very fair on Connie, who understandably wants to see her dad.

Sometimes, especially in the aftermath of a split, adults can make mistakes. Connie’s dad may have behaved badly, but unless he has done anything to threaten or harm his daughter, she should be allowed to keep in touch with him. Connie needs to talk to her mum and explain how she feels… it may take time and patience, but hopefully the lines of communication can be rebuilt.