So it's time to share some thoughts with you. This week it's about sexual abuse of boys and young men.

There is increasing evidence that boys are sexually abused pretty much everywhere there are people who have power and control over them. Schools, boys clubs, churches sports clubs, youth clubs. It can be by men but also women as well. So if it's such a big problem why don't we hear more about it?

Well there are lots of reasons why boys and young men are afraid to tell anyone. First boys are supposed to be strong and able to handle themselves and push unwanted attentions away, right? Well it's not that simple. They might really like the person as a coach, teacher, mentor, uncle but really not like the abuse. They may have been threatened by the abuser.

If they report it what will happen to the person who abused them? What will people think of them if they report it? Will they think they encouraged them? Will they think they are gay?

So, most boys don't report it and if they do it can take ten years or more.

How do I know this? Because as well as researching this issue I was sexually abused in a Christian conference centre when I was about 13 years old. I was initially turned on so I blamed myself for 'allowing it' but it WASN'T MY FAULT. It took me ten years before I told anyone If you have experienced sexual abuse, recently or in the past, then you can report it. It may not have been just you and it may help the prosecution of those who have sexually abused multiple times with other boys and young men.

It is time for your own healing and restoration. You are important. If you have questions drop me a line...

Glenn Miles.

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Email: drglennmiles@gmail.com

Resources: 1in6.org / gmmiles.co.uk