Parent Participation Feedback
Parents share how being part of the Parent Participation Project has changed their lives.
“The parent participation project has been incredibly valuable for me. Having created a safe space for parents who have experienced similar situations has enabled me to feel a sense of emotional validation. Sadly, exploitation and the complexities surrounding it is not widely understood by all, so having the opportunity to share and listen to the experiences of others has supported me to understand my emotions and process things without fear of judgement or rejection. Ivison Trust’s work for parents has enabled me to feel empowered to speak about my own experiences – this, I believe is a crucial factor in removing any societal misconceptions surrounding exploitation, and vital component of parents surviving such devastation in their lives.” Equally, important is the achievements in collating parental experiences to share with wider professional agencies. This work is instrumental in ensuring that future agency involvement may be approached holistically with the victims at the centre of any support. I strongly believe that the parental participation project is a vital aspect of the ongoing fight against child exploitation, and I cannot thank the Ivison Trust enough for the lengths that they go to!”
“Being a parent of a criminal exploited child is like carrying a dirty disease. I felt isolated and dismissed. Ivison Trust valued my voice and was literally the only place I found that could offer me a safe space to hear from other parents. Being part of the parent participation programme gave me back my confidence and strength.
I needed to use my experience for something positive. Making sense of what happened and sharing my experience was almost therapy in itself. I believe sharing our lived experiences will help professionals working with children to really understand the complex issues of child exploitation. This will help save some children from this horrific crime. Criminals continue to involve with their awful tactics to groom and trap our children often using coercion and blackmail. Ivison Trust raises awareness, educates and provide the opportunity for us to work together. As a nation we must strive to do everything in our power to protect our children and keep them safe.”
“My experience of being a small part of the parent participation group has been incredibly helpful as I have felt part of a community that really understands the heartbreak that I have been trying to navigate. When I have felt completely alone and lost, this group has kept me going. Although I haven’t taken full advantage of this group due to other commitments of family life and work, I truly feel that it can be so helpful and inspirational to others affected by child exploitation (CE). I have been able to access counselling through the programme which has been amazing for me and has allowed me to change my perspective about my life and my child. Thank you and I hope this group continues to thrive and help parents of CE children. The pain doesn’t end but services like yours helps parents to keep going.”
“Without the support of the Ivison trust I or my son wouldn’t be in the place we are today. No one judged us I was able to connect with parents that were suffering just like me and my family, share experiences and be able to support others whilst being supported. Parents are the ones to understand the failings and provide valuable feedback on what changes are required to support victims. I believe the Ivison trust provided me with the tools to save my boy.”