In this episode, we wanted to explore impact of sexual assault and to look at the way it can affect not only the victim but also ripple out into their family and the wider community.

Áine McHugh struggled to cope after she was sexually assaulted between the ages of 16 and 17 by a man she was working for as a babysitter. She missed out on key milestones in her life, and felt she had no future until she began to attend counselling and therapy. Áine is a real inspiration and is doing much better now, this is her first ever interview and she told her story with so much courage and grace.

To speak about the importance of getting help, and how therapy can give you the tools to cope, we also spoke to Yvonne Barnewell the Therapy Services Manager with the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast help is available. Contact Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s National 24-Hour Helpline on 1800 77 8888.

This podcast was supported by Avolon.