Jeffrey Donaldson sentencing: 'Ask difficult questions and recognise when something is wrong to prevent more cases' say abuse charities
Members of the public need to ask difficult questions and recognise wrong to protect children, abuse charities have said in the wake of Jeffrey Donaldson’s sentencing.
As the disgraced politician started his 15-year stretch for historical sex offences against two women when they were children, organisations that help victims deal with the horrific abuse they suffered spoke of the “profound and lasting impact” those traumatic experiences leave.
The Northern Ireland wing of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children stated years of repeated abuse Complainant A and Complainant B each suffered would have caused serious harm, as well as “betraying the trust placed in [the former DUP leader and MP] as a public figure”.
Said a spokeswoman: “Both women showed incredible courage in giving evidence, and we hope they can now begin to move forward in their lives knowing their abuser has been held accountable.
“Child sexual abuse can have a devastating impact on victims, and it is vital they receive the support they need.
“This case highlights that no matter how long ago the abuse took place, or who the perpetrator is, those who come forward will be listened to and can see justice served.”
The charity reinforced the importance of vigilance among members of the public when it comes to preventing further such cases,
“We can all play a part in keeping children safe,” said the spokeswoman. “This means being prepared to ask difficult questions, recognising when something may be wrong and taking action when concerns arise.
“If something doesn’t seem right, it’s important that it is reported to those who can help protect a child.”
Adults who are worried about a child can contact the charity’s helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected], he added, while Childline is also available for children and young people on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk.
Nexus NI, which provides support and a specialised professional counselling service to people impacted by sexual abuse and abusive relationships, stated that although the guilty verdict in the Donaldson case “acknowledged the truth of what these victims endured”, it marked more than “an important stage in the criminal justice process”.
Said a spokesman: “Justice is about more than a finding of guilt. It is also about ensuring that the consequences imposed properly reflect the gravity of the abuse and its lifelong impact on the victims who have had to live with its effects.
“Those with lived experience often carry the emotional, psychological, and relational consequences long after a sentence has been served.
“We also know that confidence in the justice system is heavily influenced by how victims are treated, and outcomes are perceived.”
As a result, he added, punishments meted out by courts need to be severe enough to “reflect the full extent of harm caused”, while the voices of victims have to be at the centre of justice and accountability.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with those affected by this case,” said the spokesman. “We recognise the strength it takes to come forward, remain engaged, and share experiences that are often deeply painful.
“At Nexus NI, we will continue to support those with lived experience of sexual abuse and abusive relationships and advocate for a justice system that is not only robust and fair, but also fully recognises the lifelong impact that sexual abuse can have.”