From June 2021, funding for our children’s counselling service comes to end, with 41 children currently waiting for our support and increasing demand for our service across Northern Ireland. We need your support to continue to be there and make a long-lasting, positive impact on the lives of local children.
Over the past 5 years, thanks to funding from Children in Need, Nexus has been working with 207 children and young people aged 8 to 17 who have suffered various forms of sexual abuse which can include rape, sexual touching, child sexual exploitation, online grooming and abuse.
The trauma suffered following sexual abuse can present in a range of ways including self-blame, risk of suicide, depression, anxiety, sleep troubles, substance misuse, living in fear and isolation and problems concentrating or indeed attending school. Support is more important than ever as many children have suffered additional challenges and anxieties over the past year due to the additional strain of lockdowns and in some instances with the perpetrator of their sexual abuse.
Working with our counsellors, using a range of therapies, children can access up to 18 counselling sessions at Nexus. They are supported to understand their trauma, the effects it can have on them and work to develop healthy coping mechanisms to control it in their day to day lives, as well as looking forward to a brighter future.
At Nexus, we know how vital our service is and the difference it makes to the lives of children. Accessing counselling and this safe space to talk about their experiences can be a major step towards reengaging meaningfully in school, with their hobbies, improving family relationships, day to day coping skills and enabling them to have a more positive outlook for their long-term futures.
“I’m enjoying laughter and life again” (young person aged 16)
“The best thing is being able to talk about online abuse and be understood…I can't believe how much it has helped me" (young person aged 15)
“Counselling has helped me find my voice. I have been heard. I can now take control of my life. I no longer self-harm. I am not suicidal. I have techniques to help me to cope” (young person aged 14)
With your help, we can continue to be there and support the most vulnerable children in our society at a time in their young lives when they need us most. We are asking for you to join our Beacon of Light & Hope appeal. We would greatly welcome your support in the following ways:
• BE A FRIEND & SPONSOR CHILDREN WHO ARE WAITING TODAY
• BE AN ALLY & SHARE OUR APPEAL WITH OTHERS
Every £1080 raised will sponsor an 18-week counselling programme for a child or young person, helping them on their journey from harm to healing.
As well as a donation or fundraising support, we need you to be an ally for our work by sharing our appeal, engaging others and passing the beacon.
Beacon of Light & Hope for Children
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Nexus
Published: 12 May 2021
Beneficiary
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Nexus Charity no. NIC102558 Email: communications@nexusni.org Tel: 028 9032 6803 |
Nexus is Northern Ireland's sexual trauma charity offering specialist counselling, information, and support to anyone affected by any form of sexual trauma.
Our counselling services are available to women, men and children aged 8-17 years, helping them to work through the trauma they have experienced and start to rebuild their lives.
In addition to our specialist counselling & post-counselling services, Nexus delivers educational programmes to young people and facilitates training to professionals.
Nexus also manages Northern Ireland’s 24 hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline providing support, information, and referral to victims, as well as concerned friends, family, and professionals.
