Impact Report
2023 - 24
Supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse
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Welcome
2023 - 24 has seen some significant challenges in an uncertain economic and political climate. We have transitioned during this period of change to strengthen our capabilities both clinically and operationally.
2024 - 25 will be a busy and challenging year for the charity, balancing demand, clinical capacity, and driving service improvements in the face of financial uncertainty in the sector.
We will focus on continuing to provide a quality service for clients, developing and growing income generation streams in addition to progressing goals towards environmental improvement and sustainability.
As always, we will approach the challenges ahead with energy, enthusiasm and commitment, honouring the courage and strength of our clients.
Sharon & Lesley
About our organisation
Founded in 2004, Break The Silence provides a range of tailored, professional support options for people affected by childhood sexual trauma in East and North Ayrshire. We understand that everyone is different. We will listen and work collaboratively with clients at their own pace. We facilitate positive change and aim to heal the effects of childhood sexual trauma and assist post-traumatic growth.
Our mission and vision
To make a profound and positive difference in the lives of those affected by childhood sexual trauma in East & North Ayrshire. To continue to be a centre of excellence in this area in Scotland.
Our work so far
We have delivered work in this area since our founder Kate Short established the charity in 2004. This year marks our 20th year of operation. We have have helped thousands of clients over our 20 year history and look forward to continuing our journey.
What we do
Watch an introduction to our organisation to gain a deeper insight into what we do on a day to day basis.
Meet some of our trustees and some of our clinical and operations team.
Click on the video to switch on audio.
Our year in numbers
445
Individuals provided with 1:1 and group counselling
3,837
sessions of professional support offered
98%
of individuals rated our service as ‘extremely useful’
“Therapy continues to build me up, strengthen me as a person and is teaching me to accept myself for who I am. Therapy gives me hope that I can live with my trauma rather than be consumed by it.”
“Therapy has kept me safe and alive at my lowest points and built me up and given me the confidence to explore new ways of thinking and in turn allowed me to have much more of a life than I was able to before”
“Helps me make more decisions with more confidence and has really helped with the shame I have about my past.”
“Helps me make more decisions with more confidence and has really helped with the shame I have about my past.”
“The support I have received from break the silence has been life changing for me.”
We acknowledge and thank our clients for their consent to share their words in this report.
Partnerships for positive change
Association of Chief Officers of Scottish Voluntary Organisations
The Male Survivors Partnership UK
Scottish Government’s Cross-Party Group for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse
The Survivors Trust Network
Scottish Government /Inspiring Scotland SOCAS Network
The National Prevention group led by Lucy Faithfull Foundation
Voluntary Health Scotland
East Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnerships
We work to ensure that the collective voice of those affected by sexual trauma is represented and heard.
Key achievements
In January 2024, Break The Silence achieved BACP service accreditation. We are one of 3 organisations in Scotland that are accredited.
In February 2024, the charity was awarded “Winner” of the Ayrshire Chamber’s prestigious Business Excellence Award - a testament to our achievements and commitment to excellence.
Our funders
We acknowledge and thank all individual & corporate donors who supported us through donations or fundraising activities
What’s next?
Improve Outcomes Reporting
Aligned to the Herman model of trauma recovery focussing on capturing indicators to evidence; safety and stabilisation, processing trauma and transitioning beyond trauma.
Develop Psychoeducational Resources
Offering additional support to clients waiting for support and as additional resources for partners/family members overview of your plans for the coming year.
Build organisational capacity
We will explore learning and development opportunities and support continuous professional development as identified across the team from the annual progress reviews.
Foster open discussion
Provide an open platform for discussion, sharing of knowledge and experience in a safe, supported environment.
Trustees Annual Report
Download our latest annual report of the trustees and financial statements in PDF format.
