"On average it takes men over two decades to disclose the sexual violence they have suffered. Trauma from abuse can lead to anxiety, depression, self-harm and even suicide. But, there are people who can help and it's never too late to talk". - Male Survivors Partnershiphttps://youtu.be/e19MPJNLcxk?si=zAf7KQJtA_v-QOMtThis week is Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. […]
Our offices will close for the Christmas holidays from Friday 22nd December 2023, giving our team a much needed break after another challenging year. However, we know that the impact of trauma rarely keeps to office hours. Even at the best of times, the Christmas holidays can be challenging for some. During a global pandemic these challenges […]
At First Step we are both in awe and full of gratitude for our counsellor Niki and Emotional Support Worker Michelle who are undertaking a courageous parachute jump in July to raise much needed funds for our charity. Whilst some people might do a parachute jump for the love of it, we are particularly impressed […]
A few weeks ago, on Saturday 18 March, we gathered a group of stakeholders to reflect on First Step’s journey so far and begin to shape its future. Each attendee held a different experience of First Step, a different piece of our puzzle. Some spoke from the perspective of having used First Step’s counselling service, […]
What are flashbacks? Flashbacks are the name given to times when memories of a past trauma intrude on the present. These memories can be so intense that it can feel as if the trauma is happening now. Flashbacks can include a range of experiences, including: Seeing images connected to the trauma. This can be like […]
#ItsNotOK – Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week 2023“I now understand the effect that the things which happened to me in my childhood has had on my adult life. In understanding that those things were not my fault, I have come to feel more empowered in taking control of my own destiny. Having finally […]
Our offices will close for the Christmas holidays from 6pm on Thursday 22nd December 2022, giving our team a much needed break after another challenging year. However, we know that the impact of trauma rarely keeps to office hours. Even at the best of times, the Christmas holidays can be challenging for some. During a global […]
First Step are currently recruiting for the following role:Service Coordinator & Clinical Lead (30 hours per week)We are looking for an experienced, qualified counsellor who will lead the operational and clinical delivery of a busy, specialist counselling service that works with men and boys affected by childhood sexual abuse and sexual assault and rape.Job type: […]
