This much-needed book addresses abuse perpetrated by professionals on those they have been entrusted to care for. It was written in response to the author's own abuse experience and to the exposure of widespread abuse by caregivers via New Zealand’s Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care. The content is deeply informed by survivor experiences, legal cases, government inquiries and research, and it emphasises the need for systemic change and survivor-centred approaches. It calls for an end to the acceptance of the broken lives of abuse victims as collateral damage in our care systems

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The book is an essential read for professionals such as teachers, coaches, doctors, nurses, psychologists, clergy and anyone working on the frontline in a position of trust. It explains the power held by the professional and how to use it safely. Employers and leaders of organisations responsible for care also need to make sure they are informed about abuse and its prevention. This book explores the prevalence of abuse in care settings and how it occurs. It explains the consequences for victims, the legal ramifications and how to vastly improve responses to disclosures. Most importantly, it examines abuse prevention and how to effectively reduce the risk of abuse occurring.

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The hope is that this book will also help abuse victims and their loved ones by providing an understanding of the causes and effects of abuse in care. It also explains the various legal avenues for redress and the benefits and pitfalls of each. 

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The following provides a brief outline of the book’s six chapters.  Each chapter is introduced with a short personal narrative related to the author's experience of abuse. This is then followed up with a discussion of the relevant issues.​​

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1. The Shameful Reality of Abuse in our Care Professions

 

Sexual abuse by professional caregivers is a widespread and ongoing issue across various professions and countries. The book delves into the research and reveals what is known about the prevalence of this type of abuse.

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2. Understanding the Power Imbalance

 

A central theme of the book is the power imbalance that exists in caregiver–client relationships. This chapter explores how such imbalances arise and shape the dynamics between professionals and those in their care. It shows why sexual contact in this context can never be genuinely consensual. Through detailed explanations and examples, professionals are encouraged to recognise the influence they hold and the responsibility to use it safely. At the same time, survivors grappling with confusion or self-blame will gain clearer insight into their experiences of abuse.

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3. Facing up to the Consequences of Abuse

 

Abuse by professional carers leaves deep and often lifelong scars on survivors, particularly through its impact on mental health. This book outlines the common symptoms of PTSD and other challenges arising from such abuse. It also examines the wider ripple effects on families, communities, and institutions, highlighting the secondary trauma these groups may endure. In addition, it considers the consequences for perpetrators themselves and those close to them.

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4. Responding to Abuse Disclosures

 

The book identifies the barriers that prevent victims from reporting abuse and offers institutions recommendations to improve their systems for raising concerns and complaints. It provides clear guidance on how both organisations and individuals should respond when abuse is disclosed, and outlines what survivor-centred, trauma-informed processes should look like in practice.

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5. Legal Ramifications

 

The book explores the complexities of pursuing justice through criminal and civil courts, as well as professional disciplinary processes. It sets out the advantages and drawbacks of each pathway, while also referencing international human rights obligations for redress. In addition, it examines the limitations and potential benefits of out-of-court settlements and redress schemes.

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6. Abuse Prevention

 

This chapter offers a comprehensive understanding of who offenders are, how they operate, and why they offend, information that is vital if prevention is to be successful. It explains how robust vetting, clear boundaries and supervision can disrupt grooming and abuse opportunities. Cultural factors, especially in faith communities, are discussed in depth, highlighting how some cultural norms can enable abuse or silence victims. The importance of organisational culture change, leadership accountability, and survivor involvement in prevention efforts is underscored. The book calls for a shift from complacency and secrecy towards education, accountability and transparency in all organisations entrusted with vulnerable people. ​​​