RASASH are the only specialist service in Highland for survivors of sexual violence. As well as supporting and advocating for survivors, RASASH also delivers informative prevention work, and campaigns tirelessly for a society free from all forms of sexual violence. People in Highland deserve to have these services freely accessible, and as a charity RASASH relies on funding to help them achieve that. Your support can make a big difference to their work, so why not donate today!

Richard's Story:

I was sexually abused as a child by a non-family member but it took me over 40 years to understand what had happened to me. After many years in denial I finally faced up to the abuse I suffered. When I approached my GP with the flashbacks and trauma I experienced I discovered that the support from the NHS would take 2-3 years to access. After suffering for so long, I couldn't cope with hanging on for support. Luckily for me I found RASASH! I'm not sure I would still be here if I hadn't had their support.

It took me many sessions to realise that the abuse I suffered was not my fault. After 9 months of emotional support, I was able to understand that I was not to blame. The support I received helped me so much. It requires a tremendous amount of faith and confidence to open up to a support worker about something you have been so ashamed of for so long. My support worker was able to make me understand where the blame lay. This support is literally life saving and I want other people to benefit from RASASH as I have. Sharing my experience is challenging but if my story and raising funds for RASASH helps other people, then I take comfort from it.

One of the reasons I am doing this is to raise awareness of this incredible service, in particular to those men who have never considered there was help available. It has taken me over 40 years to ask for help, I tried ignoring this problem and hoping it would go away but it never will, trust me. RASASH have helped me live free from guilt and shame.

I want to do a sponsored walk because my Labrador, Breagha, has been integral to my recovery through our daily walks. She is very sensitive and if I'm upset she walks right beside me with her body against my leg, and she keeps looking up at me. She also loves to fetch a stick so after a few minutes she'll look up at me with her big brown eyes and bark, as if to say 'come on now, that's enough' and then I'll throw a stick for her and focus on moving forward.

I want to raise funds for RASASH to help others to access support, but also, the more people who hear my story, the more empowered I become. As well as my wife and family supporting me, I have been truly inspired by Giselle Pelicot - her words 'shame must change sides' - resonates deeply with me and will continue to motivate me as Breagha and I take on 100 miles in July!

Thank you for your support!