Sexual Abuse in Eastbourne: Causes and Empowering Survivors
Sexual Abuse in Eastbourne: Causes and Empowering Survivors

Sexual abuse is a pervasive issue that affects people across all communities, including in Eastbourne, a coastal town in East Sussex, England. The problem of sexual abuse stems from a variety of societal, psychological, and cultural factors, and its impact on survivors is profound. Understanding why sexual abuse happens is essential to both preventing it and supporting those who have been affected. Equally important is ensuring that survivors know their available resources and how they can seek justice and healing.

Why Does Sexual Abuse Happen in Eastbourne?

Sexual abuse in Eastbourne, like in many other places, occurs due to a combination of power dynamics, cultural attitudes, and individual psychological factors. While the town of Eastbourne may appear peaceful, the underlying reasons for sexual abuse are often complex and multifaceted.

Power and Control

At its core, sexual abuse is an abuse of power. Perpetrators seek to dominate and control their victims, using sexual violence as a means to exert that control. This power dynamic can manifest in various ways, including intimate partner violence, child sexual abuse, or workplace harassment. The abuser often feels entitled to act out their desires without regard for the victim’s consent, using fear, manipulation, or physical force.

In Eastbourne, as in many smaller towns, victims of sexual abuse may be particularly vulnerable when they have close ties to their abuser, whether through family, friendship, or community connections. These relationships can make it difficult for victims to speak out, as they fear isolation, retaliation, or disbelief from those around them.

Cultural Attitudes and Silence

One of the key factors contributing to sexual abuse is a culture of silence. In many communities, sexual violence is stigmatised, and victims may feel shame or guilt about what has happened to them. This societal stigma can be even more pronounced in smaller towns like Eastbourne, where social networks are tight-knit and private matters are often kept within family or community circles.

Cultural attitudes that perpetuate myths about sexual abuse—such as victim-blaming, minimising the seriousness of certain types of assault, or misunderstanding the concept of consent—allow perpetrators to act without accountability. In some cases, the belief that sexual violence is a “private matter” discourages victims from reporting the abuse or seeking help.

Psychological Factors

While cultural and societal factors play a significant role in the occurrence of sexual abuse, individual psychological factors are often involved as well. Some abusers may have personality disorders, a history of being abused themselves, or deeply ingrained beliefs that normalise aggressive behaviour. Others may lack empathy or have a distorted view of relationships and consent, seeing their victims as objects rather than individuals with autonomy.

However, it is crucial to note that these psychological factors are not excuses for abusive behaviour. Instead, they highlight the need for early intervention, mental health support, and a legal system that holds perpetrators accountable.

What Can Survivors Do About Sexual Abuse in Eastbourne?

Survivors of sexual abuse often face immense emotional, psychological, and physical challenges in the aftermath of their trauma. However, there are several steps they can take to regain control, find support, and seek justice. Empowering survivors with knowledge about their options is vital to the healing process.

Seek Immediate Safety

The first step for any survivor of sexual abuse is to prioritise their safety. This may involve physically removing themselves from the abusive situation or seeking help from trusted friends, family members, or local services. In Eastbourne, survivors can contact emergency services by calling 999 if they are in immediate danger.

In some cases, survivors may need to relocate temporarily to a safe space, such as a domestic violence shelter or a friend’s home, mainly if someone within their household is abusing them.

Medical Assistance and Forensic Examination

After an assault, it is essential to seek medical attention, even if there are no visible injuries. Medical professionals can provide necessary care, including testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and treating any injuries. In Eastbourne, survivors can access healthcare services at local hospitals or clinics.

If the survivor is considering reporting the assault to the police, they may choose to undergo a forensic examination at a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). SARCs provide comprehensive services, including collecting evidence for potential legal action, offering medical care, and providing emotional support. Survivors are not obligated to press charges after receiving a forensic examination, but preserving evidence can be helpful if they choose to pursue legal action later.

Emotional Support and Counselling

The emotional toll of sexual abuse is significant, and survivors often experience a range of emotions, including shock, guilt, fear, and anger. Survivors must seek emotional support to process their trauma. In Eastbourne, several organisations offer counselling services specifically for survivors of sexual abuse. The Survivors Network and East Sussex Rape Crisis Centre provide confidential, trauma-informed support, including one-on-one counselling, group therapy, and advocacy services.

Support groups can also be a powerful resource, allowing survivors to connect with others with similar experiences. These groups create a sense of community and understanding that can be essential to the healing journey.

Reporting the Abuse

Deciding whether to report sexual abuse is a deeply personal choice, and survivors should not feel pressured one way or the other. However, reporting the abuse can be a crucial step in holding the perpetrator accountable and preventing further harm to others.

In Eastbourne, survivors can report sexual abuse by contacting the local police station or calling 101, the non-emergency police number. For immediate assistance, 999 should be dialled. Reporting the abuse to the police may lead to a formal investigation, and the survivor will be asked to provide a statement about the incident. Survivors have the right to have a support person or advocate with them during this process.

For those who do not feel ready to engage with the police, reporting to a support organisation or anonymously through services like Crimestoppers can provide alternative pathways for holding perpetrators accountable.

Survivors who wish to seek justice through the legal system can pursue criminal charges against their abuser. The legal process can be challenging and emotionally taxing, but survivors have the right to legal representation and support throughout. In Eastbourne, free legal advice and support are available through various legal aid organisations and victim advocacy services.

In addition to criminal charges, survivors may also have the option to pursue civil action against their abuser, seeking compensation for the harm caused. Legal action is not the only way to achieve closure or healing, but it can be a vital part of some survivors’ journeys.

Conclusion

Sexual abuse in Eastbourne, as elsewhere, occurs due to a combination of power imbalances, cultural attitudes, and individual psychology. Addressing this issue requires not only a societal shift in attitudes toward sexual violence but also practical support for survivors who are navigating the complex emotional and legal aftermath of abuse.

Survivors of sexual abuse have options, from seeking safety and medical attention to accessing emotional support and pursuing legal justice. While the healing journey can be difficult, the availability of resources and support systems in Eastbourne empowers survivors to regain control and move forward. Ultimately, by fostering a supportive and responsive community, we can create an environment where sexual abuse is no longer tolerated and survivors are given the care and justice they deserve.

If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to Sussex Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.