For years, media attention has focused on victims of childhood sexual abuse, with children born of rape neglected. A recent BBC documentary Oout of the shadows: born of rape seeks to remedy it.
In the show, victims of abuse who gave birth to children and the children themselves explain the devastating effects of this crime. While help is available for mothers, unfortunately this is not the case for those born to them and who must also be recognized as victims.
The change should come from the Victims Bill. The new bill aims to improve support for victims through a “Victims’ Code”. If passed, the law will result in better access to help, such as therapy and information about their case.
Despite greater public awareness in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal, disclosing abuse is still difficult. There is the stigma and the fear of not being believed. It is even more difficult for children born of rape. It is hoped the new law will reduce stigma and make more victims realize they are not alone, encouraging them to get the help and support they need.
Working in the field of child abuse, I am used to acting on behalf of victims of abuse in a civil action for redress. It will be interesting to see how the law evolves in the treatment of people born as a result of rape.
Commentary by David Greenwood
The addition of those born of rape to the Victims’ Code is a welcome recognition of their place in society, but the thousands of children born into these circumstances suffer an additional psychological and sometimes physical disability as a result. They need a lot of extra care and frankly, they’re not getting it right now. The only way to try to help these deserving people with money is to file a claim with the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (“CICA”). Money brings the freedom to buy your own choice of therapy.
I worked with a woman born of rape whose CICA case was approved by a panel of judges. The ICCA has appealed the decision and we expect another court hearing at the end of 2023. If we succeed again, the thousands of children born of rape will automatically be entitled to compensation. I therefore encourage anyone in this situation to contact me now to start a complaint. (because the process takes several months).
If you have been the victim of abuse and would like to speak to one of our specialist lawyers, please call us on 0800 138 4700Or contact us through the website.