By coincidence, the publication of this season’s Journal occurred at the same time as the mushrooming revelations around Jimmy Savile’s abuse of many of his fans over many years. The press are currently talking about 50 or 60 people but he must have come into contact with thousands of vulnerable young, star-struck youngsters in his time. The abuse appears to have been well masked (or ignored) because of the money he was then able to donate to many good causes.

The Commentary and Lead Article in the Journal demonstrate one of the many serious outcomes for future health that childhood abuse can have using attitude to cervical screening in later life as an example. These also highlight the value of one particular organisation who are likely to be inundated with more calls for help and support.

NAPAC is the only UK national charity that supports adult survivors of all forms of childhood abuse. Founded in 1997, NAPAC runs Britain’s only free phone support line for adult survivors and is accredited by the Helplines Association. The support line is staffed entirely by volunteers some of whom are survivors themselves. The organisation was profiled in the Journal in 2011 by our consumer correspondent Susan Quilliam.  The organisation can be contacted at www.napac.org.uk, email at: support@napac.org.uk or the freephone Support Line on 0800 085 3330.

To learn more about the work of NAPAC follow this link to the podcast featuring Sarah Kelly, Training and Development Manager: http://podcasts.bmj.com/jfprhc/