Research: The Faithfull Papers

The indirect harm of online child sexual abuse: the impact on families of people who offend

We are delighted to publish the third in the series of our ‘Faithfull Papers’ all about the impact of our Family and Friends Forum. Launched in 2018, the forum is a space for family members and friends of people who have been viewing sexual images of children or sexually communicating with a child online.

The indirect harm of online child sexual abuse: the impact on families of people who offend

We are delighted to publish the third in the series of our ‘Faithfull Papers’ all about the impact of our Family and Friends Forum. Launched in 2018, the forum is a space for family members and friends of people who have been viewing sexual images of children or sexually communicating with a child online.

The report is based on an evaluation led by Professor Rachel Armitage (University of Huddersfield) to better understand the experience of, and explore the impact on, the family and friends of people who have offended online. Professor Armitage’s evaluation analysed the effectiveness of the forum which is visited by around 40,000 people every year and nearly 2,200 people have posted on the forum.

Published: 26 February 2025

This Paper explores key trends from 23 years of the Lucy Faithfull Foundation’s Stop It Now helpline. This pioneering anonymous service exists to prevent child sexual abuse. Since 2002, we’ve given more than 79,000 people confidential support and expert guidance.

Published: 12 September 2024

Technological interventions can deter people online from causing harm to children. From simple warning messages to behaviour-challenging chatbots, we are working on a range of initiatives to make life online safer for young

Published: 30 May 2024

Opinions about legal adult pornography are often polarised. Some people claim it is a self-centred activity that impairs sexuality with a partner and fosters unhealthy sexual attitudes. Others say it is a modern way of expressing sexuality.