In 2023, Chris Tuck and Survivors of Abuse (SOB) embarked on a diverse range of activities aimed at supporting survivors of abuse and advocating for change. Their efforts encompassed personal development, public engagement, collaborations with health and government entities, and the implementation of therapeutic programs.

Through a variety of initiatives, such as educational courses, podcasts, strategic meetings, and survivor support groups, they played a significant role in raising awareness about abuse, influencing policy reforms, and directly assisting survivors on their journey to recovery and empowerment.

This year was notable for its holistic approach to addressing the issue of childhood abuse and their unwavering commitment to driving lasting societal change.

A Strong Start:

• Chris Tuck took a well-deserved break after completing IICSA and EMDR Therapy.
• The launch of the NEW West Wickham Health & Fitness website http://www.westwickhamfitness.com and celebration of 20 years delivering health and wellness programs in the local community.
• Continued participation as a Resident Panel Member of the “Silenced” Radio Show, amplifying the voices of abuse survivors.
• Collaboration with Emma Harewood from the NHS in the Hub & Spoke Focus Group, advancing discussions on abuse and recovery.
• Preparing, co hosting & recording of episodes for the “Breaking The Cycle To Step Forward” podcast to further the education & reach on child abuse and recovery.
• Ongoing administrative work for SOB (Survivors of Abuse) including fundraising bids and accounts preparation.
• Facilitation of SOB’s Online Peer 2 Peer Support Group, offering a safe space for survivors to connect and heal.

Expanding Reach & Engagement:

• Initiation of an 8-week SOB course, focusing on holistic recovery.
• Active participation in the Criminal Justice System Task & Focus Group led by Emma Harewood.
• Organization of a Survivor Peer 2 Peer Meet Up, fostering a sense of community among survivors.
• Continuation of podcast recordings to disseminate awareness and support.
• Valuable contribution as a speaker during the Metropolitan Police Training Day.

Advocacy and Collaboration:

• Successful conclusion of the SOB 8-week course, marking another triumphant round of the program.
• Charing SOB Trustees Meetings to strategise for SOB’s future.
• Participation in critical debates regarding the issue of Sexual Offenders Name Change, supporting Della Wright and contributing to essential legal deliberations.
• Active involvement in strategic meetings, ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard at the highest levels.
• Recording of “Myths & Realities” sessions, aimed at challenging misconceptions about abuse.
• Continuation of the indispensable Peer 2 Peer support groups, a vital element of SOB’s support system.
• Key contribution to the IICSA Changemakers Steering Group & Act On IICSA exerting influence on policy and change.
• Attendance at the Victim’s Summit 2 Day Event and other meetings, expanding our knowledge and expertise.
• A meeting with the Home Secretary to bring survivors’ concerns to the attention of the government.
• Participation in a “Social Services Online” Meeting for hosting an event as keynote speakers with Beverley Ann.
• Commemoration of a year of “Breaking the Cycle To Step Forward.”

Raising Awareness and Education:

• Notable feature on LBC / Claudia Liza and Trish Goddard shows for the purpose of raising awareness.
• Participation in Essex University & LA Trobe Lived Experience Interviews.
• Active engagement in the IICSA Changemakers Wider Working Group.
• Participation in Trauma Training and a 12-week Influence Public Speaking Course.
• Collaboration with Anglia Ruskin University on consultancy work.
• Continuation of the pivotal role in facilitating SOB Peer 2 Peer Support groups.
• Expanding Knowledge and Networks:
• Participation in presentations at Hayes School and ARU, thereby disseminating awareness in educational settings.
• Recording of podcasts for IICSA / VSCP.
• Updating of the West Wickham Health & Fitness website and engagement in various training and presentations.

Collaboration and Growth:

• Launch of the CT Motivational Speaker & Trainer website http://www.christuckmotivationalspeakerandtrianer.co.uk
• Collaboration with PIER ARU as a VSCP Consultant, active participation in Metropolitan Police Training, and participation in a 12 week public speaking course.
• Diligent work on a Victim Impact Statement for Sarah Champion MP regarding Amendment 46 and #TheKnock and attendance at a Channel 4 Event supporting other survivors.

Strategic Planning & Advocacy:

• Thorough preparation for Wendy Kier’s Online Conference and continued participation in SOB, IICSA Changemakers & Act On IICSA meetings.
• Support of others and hand delivery of a letter to Downing Street on the topic of Mandatory Reporting.
• Active participation in training and bid application processes, attendance at a WWHF Retreat, and engagement with ARU re CSA Language Workshop and other work.

Focused on Mandatory Reporting and Networking:

• Active participation in multiple meetings and conferences focusing on mandatory reporting and survivor support.
• Application for the Survivors Participation Manager position & the Policing Board to further engage survivors and to share lived experiences.
• Attendance at many workshops e.g. the Law Commission, Mental Health, Victims Summit.

Collaboration and Empowerment:

• Continued delivery of the SOB 8 Week Course and active participation in #ActOnIICSA Steering Group meetings.
• Attendance at the Brave Movement and Council for Europe meetings, along with collaboration with Simon Bailey on CSA Family Environment issues.
• Active participation in the ARU VSCP Liaison Role and attendance at a Survivor Support Event.
• Engagement in the Viv Gordon Online and the IICSA Bench Legacy Event.
• Successful conclusion of the SOB 8 Week Course and participation in high-level meetings, including the Council for Europe in Strasbourg.
• Celebration of the IICSA Changemakers One Year Anniversary as a speaker.

Stand Out Events of 2023

• May 23 – Spoke & presented at the ARU PIER 2 day event with May Baxter Thornton

• Sept 23 – Spoke & presented at the global ISPCANN Event in Edinburgh with Dr. Theresa Redmond

• Nov 23 – Spoke & presented at the International Council for Europe event with Fay Maxted OBE CEO of The Survivors Trust.

Reflection and Forward Planning:

• Attendance at Foresters Financial Charity of the Year Meeting and distribution of self-care packages to SoB’s service users and other survivors.
• Finalisation of SOB’s accounts for the year and continued engagement in ARU PIER meetings.

Throughout 2023, Chris Tuck and SoB have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting survivors of abuse, raising awareness, and advocating for systemic change.

Through a variety of initiatives including educational programs, support groups, high-level advocacy, and public speaking, they have continued to make significant strides in the fight against childhood abuse and in supporting those affected by it.

Their dedication to creating lasting societal change is evident through their diverse range of activities and collaborations which are set to continue in 2024 and beyond.