East Yorkshire Man Shares Experience of Abuse to Inspire Others to Speak Out
Joshua became an ambassador for Andy’s man club after he struggled with his mental health
Last updated 20th Sep 2024
For the first time, an East Yorkshire man is sharing his experiences of being sexually abused by his brother - in the hope of helping others speak out.
Joshua Sayer from Goole became an ambassador for Andy’s Man Club after he struggled with his mental health.
He's now waived his right to anonymity because he wants to encourage others to speak out - in an exclusive interview he has done with us.
Joshua Sayer, ambassador, Andy’s Man Club Goole, said:
“Between the ages of ten and fifteen, I was sexually abused by my older brother. It caused a lot of problems growing up like school life but it really affected me more in my mid to late twenties."
Joshua reached out to Andy's Man Club after he hit rock bottom, he said:
"“One of my friends that I know from years ago walked down the street and I told him I was supposed to be going to this mental health club, but I might chicken out so he replied that he was going to it as well and offered for me to go with him. That was July last year.
“You don’t have professionals telling you what should and shouldn’t do, it’s like-minded people that have been through maybe not the same but very similar situations.
“I think the club saved my life, I feel like a whole new person now.”
He's now encouraging others to reach out for support, he added:
“Turn up and have a brew, honestly, it’s such a great environment. We have such a great team of facilitators who contribute massively.”
You can find the Goole group here or search for a local group on Andy's Man's website.