Introduction to Intrafamily sexual abuse

Service Description

Introduction to Intrafamily sexual abuse General information Introduction to Intra-Family Sexual Abuse – Training for Professionals This training provides a comprehensive introduction to understanding, identifying, and responding to intra-family sexual abuse. Participants will explore the dynamics of abuse within family systems, recognise signs and indicators in children and adolescents, and learn evidence-based models and tools for assessment and safeguarding. Using established frameworks, including Finkelhor’s preconditions for abuse, Stockholm Syndrome, Traumatic Bonding Theory, and the Lucy Faithfull Foundation model, this course equips professionals with practical strategies for working with children, supporting families, and collaborating in multi-agency contexts. Ideal for professionals working with children and families, this session enhances awareness, develops practical skills, and strengthens safeguarding practice in a sensitive, structured, and informed way. Learning Objectives - By the end of this training, learners will be able to: Understand the dynamics of intra-family sexual abuse and the factors that can increase risk within family settings. - Recognise signs and indicators of abuse in children and adolescents, including emotional, behavioural, and physical cues. - Apply evidence-based theoretical models—including Finkelhor, Traumatic Sexualization, Traumatic Bonding, and Lucy Faithfull Foundation models—to understand abuse patterns and trauma. - Communicate effectively and sensitively with children when concerns arise, following best-practice guidance. - Respond appropriately to disclosures or suspicions, using safeguarding procedures and multi-agency collaboration. - Support non-offending family members while maintaining professional boundaries and ethical practice. Facilitator The session is delivered by an experienced psychosocial practitioner with over a decade of frontline work supporting vulnerable children and young people. With a strong academic background in psychology and psychosocial intervention, they combine evidence-based knowledge with extensive real-world experience. Having worked across diverse communities, including London and the Midlands, they bring a deep understanding of the challenges faced by both young people and the professionals who support them. Their approach bridges theory and practice, ensuring the training is both academically grounded and highly practical for everyday professional use.