As we mark Sexual Violence Awareness Week, JAAR stands with survivors and continues to shine a light on the deep, lasting impact of sexual violence. We know that sexual violence affects communities everywhere — and Jersey is no exception. In 2024 alone, 85 people received critical trauma-informed counselling and support from JAAR. These are not just statistics; they represent real people — our friends, family members, neighbours — who are working to rebuild their lives after experiencing the trauma of sexual violence.
Sexual violence is far more prevalent in our local community than many might think. It is easy to look the other way, to assume that it doesn’t affect us, but the truth is that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand. Silence only perpetuates harm. We must face the reality that sexual violence happens here, and we must take action to support those affected and work towards lasting change.
As JAAR celebrates 10 years of providing compassionate, trauma-informed support to survivors, we reflect on the progress we’ve made and the vital role our charity plays in supporting the local community. For the past decade, we have offered a safe space for survivors to begin their healing journey. We have helped countless individuals through the darkest moments of their lives, offering the care and resources needed to heal. And yet, as we celebrate our anniversary, we also know there is so much more to be done.
Now, more than ever, it is time to change our community for the better. We believe in a future where survivors are never blamed or ignored, where support is easily accessible, and where no one has to face their trauma alone. We envision a Jersey where survivors of sexual violence can come forward without fear of judgment or isolation, and where the cycle of harm is finally broken.
But to achieve this, we need your help. Together, we can create a world free from sexual violence. We can work to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide survivors with the resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. It is only through our collective effort that we can make a lasting difference in our community.
Thank you for standing with us and with survivors. Whether you are a supporter, a volunteer, or a donor, your contribution is helping us create a safer and more compassionate Jersey for all. Together, we will continue our fight for a world where sexual violence is no longer a hidden reality, but something we confront head-on with empathy, action, and unwavering support.
The journey is long, but it is one worth taking. Let’s keep moving forward — for survivors, for Jersey, and for a future where sexual violence is no longer tolerated.
