“I would have opened up years ago, even before the police got involved, if I knew these resources were here.”
Today, we’re launching our latest Faithfull Paper. We’ve analysed anonymous chats and emails with young people using Shore, our online safe space for young people worried about sexual behaviour. Through this confidential service, they can ask difficult questions, reflect honestly, and agree actions to manage their behaviour and prevent harmful sexual behaviour.
The findings provide a rare insight into how young people feel about their behaviour, and what support they want before they come to the attention of professionals.
75% were not known to professionals or statutory services
More than 75% had never spoken to another professional about their concerns before contacting us. Shore was the first place they had felt able to talk openly.
When we launched Shore three years ago, we knew there was a need for this type of service. Young people were seeking help through our Stop It Now helpline. What is now evident is that many young people are concerned about their behaviour, want help and support, and need a place to turn to.
One young person described Shore as a turning point. “My habits have gradually got worse”, they said. “When your website came up it was like a lifeline.”
The anonymity and confidential space that Shore provides for young people is essential to prevent or stop harmful sexual behaviour.
Young people need support for the emotional toll they carry
Young people came to Shore looking for answers. It was one of the only places they felt able to speak honestly about shame, anxiety and hopelessness without fear of judgement. A major barrier to seeking help was not knowing where to start or not believing they could change at all.
Being unable to explain why they had engaged in behaviours left young people feeling confused, and they didn’t know what actions might help them manage their behaviour.
The weight of staying silent can be heavy. One young person reflected, “I’ve been feeling terrible and I realise now that I should’ve spoken to someone sooner.”
Shore advisors help young people make sense of what they are experiencing, understand their behaviour, and move forward safely.
Young people can change their behaviour; they just need the right support
Young people want to change. What they lack is confidence that change is possible.
The ability to change should not weigh solely on a child. Our Head of Clinical Services (Children & Young People), Rachel Haynes explains: “We’re more than just a listening service. Alongside compassionate support, we offer practical, action-focused advice that empowers young people to understand and manage their behaviour, helping them make positive choices and ensuring that both they and those around them remain safe.”
By providing young people with the tools and guidance they need to build confidence in their ability to change, we can help them develop ways of reducing risks and take steps to prevent future harm. It is our responsibility to help create positive change, rather than expecting a child to carry that alone.
Shore is uniquely placed
Up to half of child sexual abuse is carried out by under-18s.
Shore is uniquely placed to support young people’s needs, at an early stage of their help-seeking journey. One young person said, “I’m glad this is giving me the opportunity to turn my life around before things went too far.”
The findings in our new Paper demonstrate the importance of Shore. Young people will seek help before behaviour escalates, provided services feel safe, confidential and accessible.
Help us promote Shore
Tell the young people you work with about Shore. We can also provide Shore posters, stickers, and leaflets – get in touch at contact@lucyfaithfull.org.uk.
Spread the word
Share our mission, advocate for prevention, and challenge outdated narratives.
