There is an increasing public dialogue about peer-to-peer abuse and sexual harassment, and we would want to support any pupil who has experienced harmful sexual behaviour within the community. We would want our current young people to feel safe in seeking support from us in school and to feel able to share their experiences.
However, the concept of ‘safe’ might be difficult for former pupils because we cannot guarantee confidentiality particularly in the context of historic issues and may have a statutory duty to share information. We know that this presents some difficulty for those who want support but who may be very worried about the consequences of speaking out. If anyone feels that they need further advice, we would like to signpost The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, the only UK-wide child protection charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse. They work with entire families affected by sexual abuse including young people with inappropriate sexual behaviours; adult male and female sexual abusers; victims of abuse and other family members. The organisation runs the confidential Stop It Now! helpline (0808 1000 900).
In addition, you may find the following links helpful:
Citizens Advice www.citizensadvice.org.uk
• The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) www.napac.org.uk
• Rape Crisis Scotland www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk
• Scottish Childhood Abuse www.mygov.scot/childhood-abuse
• Speak out Scotland www.speakoutscotland.org
• The Samaritans www.samaritans.org
• The Survivors Trust (TST) www.thesurvivorstrust.org
If you wish to speak directly to the School about your experiences or to find out more about pastoral care at Hutchesons’ Grammar School today please contact the school on 0141 423 2933 or email secondary@hutchesons.org, and request contact from the Child Protection Coordinator.