The Family Secret
The courage of, Kath, the woman at the centre of this story is extraordinary. Sexually abused from the age of seven, she is now in her 30s, as she and her mother come face to face with Rob, her abuser in a restorative justice session, which is – beneath a calm surface – as riven with pain and anger as you would imagine.
It feels as if we are caught inside the nightmare with the family: you have to admire their bravery in allowing the filming to happen at all. And be aware that the shocks keep coming: nobody gets off lightly. A devastating human story told with sensitivity, but sparing us nothing.
And while Kath’s courage is to be applauded, Rob’s agreeing to take part in both the restorative justice project and this film speak to his deep remorse, and also his bravery.
Useful Links
If you or someone you know has been affected by issues in our film then please get in touch with one of these brilliant organisations that are there to listen and to help. Click the logos to find out more.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
If you think that a child is in immediate danger please dial 999. Alternatively please contact your local authority social care department, or the NSPCC listed below.
If you are a child who needs help, please call Childline on 0800 11 11 (Open 24 hours)
24/7 support is available thought the Samaritans call: 116123 and Victim support call: 08081689111 and is completely free of charge.
You can also text Shout on 85258 for 24 hour support.
What should I do immediately after a sexual assault or rape?
After a rape or sexual assault you may be affected emotionally and physically. Only you can decide what you feel up to doing in the following hours, days or weeks. But there are certain pieces of advice we can offer you, so that you have the knowledge you need to make the right decisions for you, and get the support you need.
If you would like to find out more about Restorative Justice you can go to the Restorative Justice Council national website who can put you in touch with the service provider in your local area.
If you have been affected by any of the issues in the film there is help and support available out there for both victims, offender and families.
Support for victims
Supporting victims of childhood abuse.
For male sexual abuse.
Supporting people who have experienced child sexual abuse and trauma.
For rape and sexual abuse.
For Victims of sexual abuse help
For Victims of sexual abuse help
UK's leading charity specialising in child protection and the prevention of cruelty to children
National organisation offering support and counselling for those affected by rape and sexual abuse.
National organisation offering support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse.
National organisation offering support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse.
Support for Women.
Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.
Helping protect children from sexual abuse
The Truth Project offers victims and survivors the opportunity to share their experience in writing, on the telephone or in person.
Supporting victims of Honour based abuse and forced marriage.
Support for families
Offering family support
For young people's mental health.
For support with mental health, counselling etc...
For family support regarding child sexual abuse.
Supporting non-abusing parents and carers of sexually abused children.
RUNTIME:
47 Minutes
PRODUCER:
Sally Ogden
DIRECTOR:
Anna Hall
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:
Brian Woods
RELEASED:
2019
Awards
Highly Commended Best Single Doc - Domestic
The Griersons