The recent resignation of Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury, amidst allegations that he failed to act against a former priest accused of child abuse, has rightly sparked public outrage. The sense of betrayal is palpable as we witness yet another institutional figure failing to protect children. However, while this instance of institutional abuse is horrific, it is crucial we also confront the reality that most child sexual abuse occurs far closer to home.

The stark truth is that child sexual abuse is pervasive not just within the walls of religious or celebrity institutions but within ordinary households. Statistics suggest that one in four girls and one in six boys experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18, though experts believe the true figures are likely higher. And most of these abuses occur within the home – not at the altar or in the public spotlight.

Yet, society’s response to these everyday horrors often feels muted. High-profile cases command our attention and outrage, but the silent suffering in households nationwide too frequently goes unaddressed. If we could channel our collective energy into acknowledging and tackling the abuse that takes place within families, we might also drive meaningful change within larger institutions.

The Historical Roots of Abuse

The failure to address child sexual abuse, particularly within the home, is not a recent phenomenon but is deeply rooted in societal history. During the era of slavery, for example, the exploitation of vulnerable individuals was systemic. Enslaved women and children were often subjected to sexual abuse by those in power, with little to no accountability. This exploitation was not only about dominance but also served economic interests, as enslaved children born from such abuse became property of the enslavers.

Although slavery was abolished, the attitudes that normalised these abuses did not simply disappear. Instead, they persisted, transforming into other forms of exploitation. Power dynamics within families and communities continue to enable abuse to thrive in silence. Recognising this historical context reminds us that child sexual abuse is not just an individual or familial issue—it is also a societal one with roots in entrenched systems of power and control.

Addressing the Issue

Addressing child sexual abuse requires that we shift our focus and take decisive actions. A few critical areas demand attention:

  • Raising Awareness: We must broaden public understanding and ensure that society recognises the extent and severity of abuse happening within households. This means making it part of public discourse, no longer hiding behind a taboo that has shielded it from full exposure.
  • Education for Empowerment: Children must be equipped with the knowledge to understand consent and the confidence to speak out. Comprehensive education programmes that address these topics sensitively and thoroughly are essential to
  • Support for Survivors: As a trauma specialist, researcher into child sexual abuse, and project holder at Little Ro, I witness daily the devastating effects of child rape. The wounding that our children grow up with often shapes their entire lives, and I see firsthand how these adult children struggle with relationships, self-worth, and navigating the world. Survivors carry burdens they should never have had to bear, and the silence surrounding this issue only compounds their pain.

We run support groups for adult survivors, providing a safe space to share, heal, and reclaim their sense of self-worth. At Little Ro, we champion support for ‘adult children of abuse’ and are committed to helping survivors overcome trauma and rebuild their lives.

  • Policy and Enforcement: Finally, we need robust policies and dedicated enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their family or community standing.

Taking Action

By acknowledging the historical roots of child sexual abuse and confronting it head-on within the home, we can work towards a society where all children are safe, not only within institutions but, most importantly, within their own families. At Little Ro, we campaign for change and provide crucial support for survivors, helping to break cycles of silence and harm.

What You Can Do

  • Share this article: Help spread awareness by sharing this article on social media.
  • Support organisations like Little Ro: Donate to or volunteer with organisations that support survivors of child sexual abuse.
  • Talk to your children: Have open and honest conversations with your children about healthy relationships and body safety.
  • Get involved: Advocate for policies that protect children and hold perpetrators accountable.

Together, we can create a safer future for all children.

About the Author

Roz Etwaria is a dedicated advocate for social justice and a leader in creating inclusive environments. Her work spans two vital areas:

  • Project Leader at Little Ro: As the Project Holder at LittleRo.org, Roz is committed to providing Help, Hope, and Healing for survivors of child sexual abuse. Little Ro delivers peer support, research, advocacy, and education and fights the stigma surrounding abuse.
  • DE&I Strategist and Leadership Coach: Roz helps organisations unlock the potential of diverse teams, building equity and high-performance cultures. Drawing on her lived experience and professional expertise, she champions inclusivity, particularly for people of colour.

Roz’s journey fuels her mission to drive meaningful change. As a sought-after speaker and consultant, she inspires justice, empowerment, and the reclamation of personal narratives. For Roz, this work is not just a career—it’s a calling.

Connect with Roz:

  • WebsiteRozEtwaria.com – Explore her insights on fostering inclusive cultures and supporting survivors.

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