Wirral project offers help to victims of child abuse

Sep 17 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

lantern project

THE Lantern Project has become a powerful tool for many who are haunted by childhood sexual abuse.

The project, based in Wallasey, was set up by Graham Wilmer in April 2003 and its internet site has since received 2,541,608 hits, with 52,324 in August 2008 alone.

The success of the project has led to NHS and Lottery grants which have funded a book called Picking Up The Pieces by Graham and fellow survivors.

As well as being a practical law and therapy guide to victims of sexual abuse, it exposes myths, answers difficult questions and has a collection of writing created by recovering victims.

Graham, a foster carer and father of three who lives in New Brighton, was sexually abused by a teacher when he was 14.

He kept this secret for years, not even telling his wife, but 12 years ago his memories manifested themselves and Graham had a breakdown.

He said: “The memories came as a trickle at first, then more, and more, each time becoming sharper in focus and more detailed.

“They pervaded my mind during every moment of every day, and haunted my dreams at night.

“During the years of therapy that followed, I started looking for information about childhood sexual abuse but hardly any was available.

“This led to the creation of the Lantern Project, which provides support, a deep pool of information including updated law, therapies, contact details and an online forum where a registered 700 victims share their stories.

“Research shows that abuse affects one in four children, so victims are not alone and just reading our book could remove a huge burden.”

For more details about Picking Up The Pieces, visit www.lanternproject.org.uk

Information about the Lantern Project can be obtained by emailing lanternproject@yahoo.co.uk or calling 07866508094.