My name is Emma Jane Taylor.

I was nine when I was first abused, by someone known to my family. After my father abandoned me at 11/12 years old, I was then groomed and abused for the next four years by family friend. My childhood was stolen from me.

I felt it important to share my story after I was working at Thats TV as their wellbeing presenter. I sat there listening to people's stories and felt a fraud...and one day, I knew what I needed to do, and authored my book – published my book and then spoke out and here I am. 

My initial steps to healing took place when I went into therapy at 23 years old which continued for the next ten years or so. I did an A-Z of therapy, but it was actually hypnotherapy many years after I began searching for answers that gave me my biggest hope.

My biggest support network has been my family and friends, I could not do this without them. Each one of them has been impactful to this part of my life. It has been hard for them, but together we have found a way forward.  

Reclaiming my sense of identity and agency has been difficult, I worked hard at therapy for nearly 20 years, before I felt safe enough and strong enough to speak out and help others. But throughout this difficult journey I have developed self-care practices- I go to the gym EVERY working weekday and at the weekends I swim/ garden/ walk. Wellbeing has been key – for me it is sanity not vanity. 

A standout turning point in my recovery for me was when I reconnected with people – such as my senior school friends. That was empowering for me. They remembered things I could not - it was tough, but an important part of why I am here.  

There have of course been setbacks on my journey, some people I love have found the conversation difficult, but I know that is on them - and I hope they get support too. But I cannot carry guilt for them too. It is hard enough trying to face this horrific trauma at times.

I used to think forgiveness was important. Now I realise it is not forgiveness for me because raping a child is unforgivable. I just focus on the important part of why I am here, and that is to give hope to others and protect children, because I learnt the importance of that. I believe the focus should be on Survivors and not perpetrators.

I have not achieved what I have to date without a lot of therapy & support. I do not advise anyone to share anything about their personal story in public, until they have a greater understanding of their why & also of what they are facing if they do speak out.