Northern Ireland

Leaflet drop seeks to raise awareness of support available for historical institutional abuse victims and survivors

The now-demolished former Kincora children's home
The now-demolished former Kincora children's home

A new leaflet campaign aims to raise awareness of the help available to victims and survivors of historical abuse (HIA).

In the coming days, each household in the north will receive a leaflet outlining the support, services, and compensation available.

The leaflet drop is latest phase of an awareness campaign which began in March this year with the aim of raising awareness of the help available to victims and survivors.

It explains the roles of the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse (COSICA), the Victims and Survivors Service (VSS), and the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Board (HIARB), as well as providing contact details for those seeking support.

Executive Office permanent secretary Denis McMahon said that since its establishment in March 2020, the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Board (HIARB) has received more than 3,700 applications and made award determinations totalling some £68.8 million. 

“But there may be some HIA victims and survivors or their families who are unaware of the help and support that is now available to them, and it is hoped this leaflet drop will provide them with the information they need to get in touch should they wish to do so,” he said.

In addition to leaflets, posters will be displayed in public buildings, while there will also be a dedicated social media campaign.

“Together, these activities are all part of a concerted effort to reach the often hidden victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse,” Mr Mahon said.