Thriving & Surviving

We exist to enable survivors of current and historical sexual abuse and incest to live safe lives in which they can recover and thrive.

We Listen, We Believe, We Empower

FREE HELPLINE

ISVA SUPPORT

COUNSELLING SERVICES

DONATE

Referrals

Your Journey Starts Here

You don’t have to face this alone.

Taking the first step towards joining a support group can feel overwhelming.

Many of the women who attend SAIL’s Women’s Support Group tell us they felt anxious beforehand. They worried about meeting new people, sharing personal experiences, or whether they would feel understood.

Those feelings are completely natural.

Whether you’ve spoken about your experiences before or this is the first time you’ve considered reaching out, you’ll be welcomed into a safe, confidential and trauma-informed space where you can take things at your own pace.

  • You don’t have to tell your story straight away.
  • You don’t have to have all the answers.
  • You don’t even have to speak.

Sometimes the first step is simply sitting in a room where you no longer feel alone.

My experiences do not define me.

Healing happens one step at a time.

Before You Come…

You might be wondering…

  • “Will I fit in?”
  • “What if I become emotional?”
  • “What if my experiences are different?”
  • “Do I have to talk?”
  • “Will anyone understand?”
  • “What if I don’t know what to say?”
  • “What if I’ve left it too long?”

If these thoughts sound familiar…

You’re not alone.

Many women tell us they felt exactly the same before attending their first session

What Happens at a Women’s Group?

Each group is a little different, but you can expect:

  • A warm welcome from experienced facilitators.
  • A confidential and respectful environment.
  • No pressure to speak before you’re ready.
  • Opportunities to listen, reflect and connect.
  • Discussions that support recovery, wellbeing and self-understanding.
  • Space where everyone’s experiences are respected.

The group is facilitated by trained professionals who work in a trauma-informed way, helping to create an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and heard.

I don’t have to carry this alone.

Voices from the Women Group

All feedback taken within the group is anonymous.

“Very happy, felt welcomed and heard.”

“Friendly and very educational.”

SAIL Group Memeber

“I have taken lots of comfort, education and useful resources/tools to use in life.”

“Exactly the education we were longing for.”

SAIL Group Memeber

“Goals are what I’m looking at now.”

SAIL Group Memeber

“Very, very helpful and will be memorable for the rest of my lifetime.”

SAIL Group Member

“Liked hearing other people’s experiences.”

“The people.”

“Connections and education.”

SAIL Group Memeber

“Loved the sessions, relaxed and supportive but with direction.”

“Perfectly – Two amazing ladies! Thanks to Steph and Elisabeth.”

SAIL Group Memeber

“Hearing other people helped me realise I’m actually doing very well in dealing with my trauma.”

SAIL Group Memeber

Helpful Support Downloads

Womens Group Journey Leaflet