Every individual present here today carries a poignant tale: whether you are working within the country or abroad; whether your base is in a sanctuary, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre, a charitable organization, Parliament, or, most significantly, if you are a survivor yourself.
Your narratives and lived experiences serve as crucial instruments in our collective effort to drive change: in creating a world where individuals, irrespective of who they are or where they reside, no longer have to live in fear of facing abuse.
As survivors often express, vocalizing about their ordeal is a fundamental way to endure it.
Through our shared stories this day, we can bolster our alliance against all forms of sexual abuse.
Today, we are also present to celebrate the relaunch of the washbags initiative, with immense appreciation to Boots and In Kind Direct, without whom this endeavor would not have materialized.
The concept of the washbags was conceived in 2012, as I delved deeper into understanding the catastrophic impact of sexual violence and its aftermath on survivors.
It is needless to reiterate that annually in England and Wales alone, nearly 800,000 women and 275,000 men face attempted or actual sexual assault – figures that are likely even higher.
The primary aim behind the washbags initiative was to offer a small source of comfort to those thrust into this dreadful situation.
In 2017, with the assistance of many in attendance today, I joyfully launched the initiative at Boots’ headquarters in Nottingham.
Earlier, I emphasized the importance of listening to survivors.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of meeting numerous individuals who have unfortunately experienced sexual assault.
Some have visited SARCs and received a washbag after concluding the forensic examination.
I possess a letter from one such individual and have been kindly granted permission to share an excerpt.
This woman penned down her experience regarding her courageous daughter, whom I’ll refer to as Jane.
Two years ago, Jane underwent a full forensic examination at a SARC, accompanied by her mother and sister, shortly after being assaulted.
Her mother described it as a “traumatic yet necessary event.
As we prepared to depart, feeling low and subdued, Jane’s support worker returned with a remarkable bag containing toiletries and relaxation items.
This simple gesture completely altered the atmosphere, lifting our spirits.
It was a lovely and wholly unexpected act that reminded my daughters and me of the kindness of strangers during a dark period.
”
This letter deeply touched my heart.
The phrase “the kindness of strangers during a dark time” epitomizes the essence of your collective efforts: extending a hand of friendship to those who have been dehumanized in the cruelest manner; providing solace to those traumatized; and instilling hope that recovery, both physically and emotionally, is attainable, as Jane can attest to.
To each and every one of you, I express my heartfelt gratitude.
Thank you for sharing your narratives, for your compassion, for not remaining anonymous to those enduring the darkest moments, and above all, for your unwavering dedication to eradicating these atrocious crimes – permanently.