Why do many survivors of institutional child sexual abuse wait decades before seeking justice?

In this video, Porters Lawyers principal Jason Parkinson discusses the lasting psychological impact of childhood sexual abuse and why many survivors do not feel able to act until later in life, often between the ages of 45 and 55.

Drawing on decades of experience in abuse law, Jason explains how trauma can affect memory, disclosure and decision-making, and why delayed reporting is a recognised and common response to childhood abuse. The video also explores why more survivors have come forward in recent years, contributing to major legal and social change, including historic prosecutions and compensation claims.

For survivors considering legal action, or simply seeking to understand why they may be ready to act now, this is a compassionate and informative explanation of the trauma response and the path toward justice.