From a young age, I had endured S/A from a family friend and that marked my childhood in devastating ways. When I became a parent, the shadows of my past followed me unexpectedly into parenthood—not because I repeated the abuses of the past, but because the very system meant to support struggling families wielded my history against me. Being told by social services that due to the abuse I suffered as a child, I was more likely to perpetuate such actions upon my children, is not only demeaning but detrimental. It assumes that victims of childhood abuse cannot grow, heal, and become loving, competent parents.

Unfortunately, this narrative is not unique to me. Many parents like myself have reached out to children’s social services seeking help and support, only to be met with the presumption that they could be a threat, simply because of their own past traumas. Instead of extending a helping hand, this prejudgment creates fear and distrust towards a system that should be providing solace and solutions.

Social workers play a crucial role in our society, safeguarding the well-being of children and supporting families in need. However, the practice of judging current parenting abilities based on past abuses must end. Instead, social workers must be trained to use a family’s history constructively—to understand the need for healing and support, not as a predictor of potential harm. Emphasis should be placed on evidence-based assessments that focus on the present conduct of the parents rather than historical victimization.

We propose mandatory sensitivity training for social workers to recognize the impact of trauma and refrain from prejudicial assumptions. Additionally, there must be an implementation of guidelines that protect parents with history of victimization from unfair biases within social services. Regular reviews of these guidelines can ensure they are adhered to and evolving along with best practices in social work.

Join me in calling for a revision of current protocols in social services that unfairly penalize parents who have suffered childhood abuse. Let's strive for a system that recognizes resilience instead of questioning it, and for a future where support and understanding replace suspicion. Sign this petition to make a positive change in social work practices and protect families from misguided judgments based on their past.