Pre-trial Support Service
Supporting young people who have disclosed sexual abuse
Family Action’s Pre-trial Support Service supports children aged up to 16 (we prioritise under 13s) who have experienced sexual abuse, and their non-abusing parents/carers. Support is available only once the abuse has been disclosed to the police and while an investigation is ongoing or a trial is pending/underway. Following a disclosure, children and other witnesses are asked not to discuss this further with anyone. This is because talking about the evidence could lead to accusations of coaching, which could have a potential impact on the trial.
The service aims to help children and their parents/carers to: understand and manage trauma symptoms; improve self-esteem/self-confidence, mental health and wellbeing; and reduce stress and anxiety around the trial process – thereby improving long-term future prospects.
The service is delivered by qualified and experienced social workers who specialise in therapeutic work with children and young people, including the use of creative techniques such as art, stories, craft and play.
The service is free and available to those in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Subject to demand we may operate a waiting list.
We use a whole-family approach, providing holistic support to children and those supporting them:
Download our Pre-trial Support Service flyer.
The service is delivered at Family Action offices or at a suitable alternative location chosen by the family such as a school, GP surgery or community centre.
We work in a child-focused way:
Families can refer themselves to the service or they can be referred by GPs, CAMHs, schools, Children’s Services, the police, and voluntary organisations. If you have any queries, or would like to discuss your referral before submitting it, then please call 0116 216 8334 or email [email protected]
Parents/carers can make referrals over the phone, or by downloading the Referral Form or requesting a paper copy from [email protected]
Professionals can make referrals on behalf of parents/carers and children using the referral form.
You can read our data privacy notice here.
Family Action
Pre-trial Support Service
Fosse Neighbourhood Centre
Mantle Road
Leicester
LE3 5HG
Tel: 0116 216 8334
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.family-action.org.uk/ptss
Find out more about our Post Sexual Abuse Service.