13/02/2026
The release of the Jeffrey Epstein files has shocked the nation.
But for those of us working in sexual violence services — this is not new.
This is the lived reality of thousands of women and girls who carry this pain quietly every day.
And alongside the headlines, we must acknowledge the courage of Virginia Giuffre.
Her bravery has helped open the eyes of the world to secrets that were held and protected for years.
Speaking out against power, influence and wealth takes extraordinary strength.
May she be respected by all survivors for having that voice — especially when so many were silenced.
Headlines speak about power, wealth, influence, networks of protection and silence.
In the therapy room, I hear the same themes — just without the headlines.
As Clinical Lead for RSASS and as a counsellor, I am privileged to:
• Assess and support survivors of r**e and sexual abuse — historic and recent
• Provide clinical guidance and supervision to a team of counsellors
• Ensure trauma-informed, ethical and safe practice
• Hold safeguarding responsibility
• Support complex trauma presentations with care and integrity
And as a counsellor, my role is even simpler:
To listen.
To believe.
To validate.
To gently help restore the power that was taken.
Because every single case I support — regardless of age, background or time elapsed — is about power and control.
Sexual abuse is not about desire.
It is about entitlement, dominance and the misuse of power.
And the pattern is painfully consistent:
1️⃣ Target vulnerability
2️⃣ Build trust and groom
3️⃣ Isolate
4️⃣ Erode boundaries
5️⃣ Abuse
6️⃣ Silence through shame, fear and manipulation
When powerful men are exposed, society is shocked.
Survivors rarely are.
The conversation may feel new.
The pain is not.
Recovery is about reclaiming voice.
Reclaiming autonomy.
Reclaiming power.
And it is an honour to walk alongside those who are doing exactly that.uk
