Hundreds respond to survey on historical child sexual abuse in schools

Hundreds of submissions have been received in response to a recent survey on the handling of child sexual abuse in schools, the Commission has confirmed.

The Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Historical Child Sexual Abuse in Schools survey is aimed at gaining views from survivors in Ireland and internationally. The information is related to sexual abuse that took place in schools between 1927 and 2013.

The survey officially closes on December 7, but the Commission is urging survivors, family members and others with knowledge relating to the handling of sexual abuse in schools during that period to take the survey.

In a statement, they said: “The Commission has received information about concerns of historical sexual abuse related to schools across Ireland. In some instances, the Commission has received a single response about a particular school or context. In those situations, it may be the case that others also had concerns or experiences but may not yet have come forward. The Commission would like to highlight that every submission matters and helps to inform its work.

“The Commission has also heard from people who were aware of concerns of sexual abuse and is keen to hear from others who may be able to assist its work, not only survivors. This includes those who may have information because of their professional role or their connection to a school, such as current or former teachers, social workers or healthcare professionals, or former pupils. Such contributions may help the Commission understand how concerns were raised, responded to, or managed.

“We encourage anyone who is considering taking part to contact the Participation Support Service should they find support helpful in making that decision.”

Participation in the survey is voluntary, is designed to be survivor-centred and uses trauma-informed principles. Although the survey closes in December, they recognise the difficulty for survivors to engage, and will allow participation where possible after the closing date.