I don’t want her to experience what I did

QWhen I was at secondary school, decades ago, a teacher touched me inappropriately. It only happened once and I didn’t mention it to anyone. I grew up, had my sons and for years forgot about it. But I’m worried for my granddaughter, who’s going to big school soon. Her school seems great, the teachers seem wonderful. But I’m terrified. What if she suffers as I did?

Susan says

ASadly, when you were abused, you never got help. So, although you buried your hurt as you got older, now you have a granddaughter your memories about the abuse have flooded back. Do all you can to keep her safe – enrol her parents and the school in helping her realise how important it is to mention any inappropriate touching. Also resolve your feelings about what happened to you. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (0808 8010331) can direct you to support.