I am currently working as a project manager on an NHS England programme to enhance the collaboration of child sexual abuse (CSA) service providers and local services in South London.  Our work is based on the principles of the Child House guidance[i]^,[ii] and we are seeking to gather local and national best practices in setting up and running support groups for survivors or parents of survivors of sexual abuse.

Although our programme is based in South London, it is hoped that the guide will also be of aid to specialist agencies nationally when considering and delivering therapeutic support groups. The guide could benefit professionals in the health, social care, justice and independent third-sector providers.

The programme is developing three practice guides (1) Running groups protocol, (2) a series of self-help resources – co-designed with YP and parent forums and (3) a ‘Guide to working with people with Lived Experience. 

My focused area relates to ‘Running Groups’ and we will be researching best practices through surveys, focus groups and a workshop.

We would really appreciate your help in disseminating this to the right people within your organisation/network please.

Who can get involved?

• Any specialist organisation that in/directly supports either CYP survivors and/or their non-abusing parents/carers

• Any organisation that currently/in the future may consider running groups for CYP survivors and/or their non-abusing parents/carers

• Any professional organisation that has an interest in/supports organisations that provide support to CYP survivors and/or their non-abusing parents/carers

 Why we are contacting your organisation?

• Your organisation has been identified as a local, regional or national organisation that works within the area of child sexual abuse and exploitation

• Your specialist knowledge and input in this project would be invaluable to learn from, inform and critique the best practice principles to be produced within this guide

 How can you get involved?

• Survey – you can complete an anonymous survey by copying this link into your browser: https://forms.gle/jn3p4FgYMbdBUJoz6

• 1:1 interview – telephone or online – to explore the groups you offer, what factors are essential when setting up groups and your learning

• Join an online task and finish group with professionals – May – Jun 2023 (up to three meetings)

What next?

• Complete the survey by 29^th March 2024

• Let us know if you would like to be interviewed or join the Task and Finish group below

• We can provide updates on the impact your contribution has made as the project progresses

If you would like to be involved, please email Chris Tuck, project manager at [email protected]