The release of a new Netflix documentary has generated a lot of media attention and discussion about the prolific abuser Jimmy Savile, who died in 2011. The documentary focuses on how his celebrity status and political connections insulated him from prosecution and made it difficult for individuals to speak out.
Commenting on Netflix’s new limited series, Dr Jon Bird, our Head of Research and Analysis said:
“One of the first things that struck me was the overwhelming sadness of this documentary, from the survivors’ accounts to the millions of people that were manipulated into believing this calculated fabrication of charity and respectability. There are lessons to be learned here on our propensity to trust charismatic public figures, particularly in the context of the current political landscape in the UK and abroad.
As a disclosed survivor, I know that the subject matter can be triggering, but I do believe that it is a good thing that this is being talked about. Given the sheer prevalence of childhood abuse in the UK, it is important that this stays in the public eye, as we have so far to go in addressing what is a public health emergency on a global scale.
Although there is much more to be done, the landscape is changing. Last year NAPAC trained over 800 police officers, NHS staff, teachers, and private therapists in providing support for survivors of abuse. We are continuing to work with police forces, NHS departments and educational institutions to improve awareness of trauma-informed practice and to provide support for all survivors of childhood abuse.”
NAPAC was there for survivors when these crimes first became known, and we are here for survivors now. We know that this will be triggering for many survivors and we want to reassure you that you can contact us in relation to any type of childhood abuse. There is also useful information on flashbacks and grounding here.
If you are affected by this or any other story, NAPAC is here for you.
Our support line is free of charge and can be reached on 0808 801 0331 and you can also contact our support team by emailing support@napac.org.uk – we do our best to respond within 48 hours.
If you work in the press or media we also have newly updated media guidelines for journalists reporting on non-recent childhood abuse.