Tuesday, 26 February 2019

Today drummond street services stands in solidarity with the many survivors abused in Australian institutions as the media on the George Pell verdict unfolds.

drummond street is a key provider of support services as part of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse understands and recognises the severe harm caused by this abuse. Delivering this service has provided important insights into the experiences, support needs and recovery pathways of adult survivors and loved ones. These insights have informed our ongoing work with survivors who are applying to the National Redress Scheme through drummond street Redress Support Service.

We recognise George Pell’s role in the Royal Commission hearings was greatly symbolic of the harmful denial, absolute lack of empathy and cover up survivors had experienced over their lifetimes.

drummond street know survivors experience significant impacts across physical and mental health. We know survivors face a range of additional chronic and profound experiences of adversity often limiting their ability to establish and maintain family and social connections and relationships; to participate in education and employment and maintain housing and an income. Abuse of children by people in positions of power and trust are hideous crimes with impacts on entire families and generations.

Despite this we also know survivors are brave and survivors demonstrate incredible resilience in the face of the most horrible of circumstances. drummond street urges the community to listen to the voices of survivors and recognise the extent unto which they speak to power over adversity.

Drummond street recognise the media will report this verdict heavily. No doubt it will be reported in distressing detail, particularly for those who experienced abuse within institutions.  We urge people to contact services if they feel distressed or in crisis.

To all survivors of childhood sexual abuse drummond street hears you, we believe you.  We encourage you to seek out the services which you have every right to access and deserve to keep yourself comforted and protected during this difficult time.

  • Lifeline on 13 11 14
  • Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
  • MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
  • Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
  • Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
  • QLife on 1800 184 527
  • National Redress Services Information 1800 737 377
  • Drummond Street Services 03 9663 6733, 9am – 5pm