How Macca and Chris advocated for more support options for gay men in Victoria who have experienced sexual violence.
Not Alone is a new online group that will be delivered in Victoria from 20 February 2024. The group is free, like all support offered by the specialist sexual assault sector in Victoria.
The group was created in response to the important advocacy of Chris and Macca, two gay, male survivor advocates, who called for more support options for gay men in Victoria who have experienced sexual violence.
Chris & Macca’s story:
When Chris began grappling with the impact of child sexual abuse on his life, he started looking for a group he could join. While therapy with his psychologist was extremely positive, he wanted to talk with other men, particularly gay men, who had been abused as children, but no Victorian services were running groups for gay male survivors.
Eventually, he found an online men's group run by an interstate organisation. While positive in some ways, several participants talked about their fear that sexual abuse had made them gay and more generally problematised homosexuality. As a gay man happy with his sexuality, Chris knew that this was not a safe space and that he couldn't speak freely about his own experiences.
Determined that there should be a group in Victoria for gay male survivors, he teamed up with fellow survivor advocate, Macca, and approached Victorian services. Chris and Macca have been involved at every stage of making Not Alone a reality, from their initial idea to shaping the content and promoting the group.
Where and when will the group run?
The group will run online from 20 February - 10 April 2025 at 3pm - 5pm on Thursday afternoons.
About the group
The group is for gay men who have experienced child sexual abuse. The group will take place on a secure online platform so people from all over Victoria can join. The group is best suited to people who haven’t received extensive support or information on the impacts of sexual violence and are seeking a supportive space with other gay men who may have had a similar experience.
Joining the group
To express your interest, please call 9870 7330 to reach ECASA and ask to speak to intake.
