An Introduction To The NRICC

At the Lighthouse Centre (NRICC) we offer counselling and support for anybody who has been sexually abused whether it was two weeks ago or 40 years ago. Sexual abuse and incest is sometimes hidden for many years due to a variety of reasons; the complex nature of emotions surrounding the abuse, shock, shame, embarrassment, disbelief, threats, humiliation, low self-esteem, guilt are just some amongst many of these reasons. A person who has been sexually abused may be living in denial for many years or may even have blocked out the events, which is a protective response of the mind when incidents occur that it cannot deal with. The memories may only come back later in life due to a 'trigger' event.

Triggers - It can be practically anything that may trigger the mind into suddenly remembering abuse - a birth, a death, wedding, funeral, a child reaching a certain age, a taste, smell, a song, picture, pattern, this list could go on and on. The sudden onset of these memories can send a person into crisis mode and during this time it may appear as though they are suffering a ‘breakdown’. At this time it is most important that they receive expert help and advice.

Whether in crisis mode or not anyone whose life has been blighted by sexual abuse of any kind can benefit from the support and counselling offered by people who understand and are qualified to deal with the problems it causes.

We are also able to extend our support and counselling to the families and close friends of those who have suffered sexual abuse because it has a 'knock-on' effect to those closest to them.

We do not make a charge for sessions which typically last between 50 mins and one hour, however being a registered charity and heavily dependent on the public for our funding, we do ask for a donation of between £5 - £10 per session, nowhere near the £38 fee that other charities charge.

The Northamptonshire Rape & Incest Crisis Centre, 4 St Giles Terrace, Northampton NN1 2BN

Registered Charity No. 297043

This Centre is Grant aided by Northampton Borough Council & Northamptonshire County Council

Telephone: 01604 250721