For a long time, survivors were asked to explain themselves, prove themselves, or fit into systems that didn’t really listen. Many people were made to feel like problems to be managed rather than people who had been harmed.

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The Survivors exists to do things differently. We don’t want to repeat that pattern here.

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Before anything else, you should know where you stand. These are your rights when engaging with The Survivors. They are not benefits we offer or permissions we grant. They belong to you already.

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You have the right to choose whether you take part

You choose whether to take part at all.

You can join, leave, come back later, or simply read quietly.  

You choose what you share, when you share it, and who with.

You can change your mind at any time.

There is no expectation that you will tell your story, join a group, or stay involved. Being here does not create an obligation.

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You have the right to support without telling your story

Care and connection are not conditional on disclosure.

You will never be asked to recount what happened, provide evidence, or “prove” harm in order to access community spaces or support. Some people talk. Some don’t. Both are equally valid.

Care comes first. Always.

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You have the right to informed, ongoing consent

Consent isn’t a one-time form or signature. Nothing happens without your knowledge and agreement.

It means:

• you are given clear information before anything happens

• you can ask questions

• you can pause or stop

• you can withdraw permission later

If you withdraw consent, we will respect that. We will explain clearly what can and cannot be undone so you can make an informed decision.

Consent is a continuing process, not a one-time decision.

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You have the right to confidentiality

Anything you share is treated as confidential.

We do not share personal information, testimony, or identifying details without your explicit agreement.

Your story will never be used for publicity, fundraising, or political campaigning.

This work is about documentation and prevention, not exposure.

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You have the right to be treated with care

Our approach is trauma-informed and paced around your comfort, not our timetable.

You should not feel rushed, pressured, or managed. If something feels overwhelming or unhelpful, you can slow things down or step away.

Your wellbeing matters more than any process.

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You have the right to step back without consequence

You are not responsible for:

• fixing the system

• preventing future harm

• helping investigations

• representing other survivors

• or making this project succeed

You don’t owe anyone your time, energy, or story.

If you choose to take part, it should be because it feels right for you — not because you feel guilty or obligated.

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You have the right to question us

You can ask how things work. You can disagree with decisions. You can raise concerns or complaints.

No one here is above scrutiny, including the people running this organisation. Transparency is part of how we keep this space safe.

If something doesn't feel right, or if you ever feel uncomfortable, pressured, or unsure, we want to hear about it. We will listen and take concerns seriously.

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