Mum's The Word

When Denise’s daughter came home with a secret, she knew that action was needed

I smiled as I heard my 12-year-old daughter Alice walk through the front door.

‘Hi love, how was school?’

I asked, giving her a hug.

‘It was good, but I’m worried about Emma in my class,’ she said. ‘She told me her uncle is touching her and making her feel uncomfortable.’

Instantly, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up.

This girl is crying out for help, I thought.

‘Well done for telling me,’ I praised Alice.

Knowing I had to do something, I had an idea.

‘Alice, I’m going to take you and Emma for pizza on Saturday,’ I said. ‘Let her know when you see her at school tomorrow.’

‘Thanks Mum, sounds great,’ she smiled.

I hoped Emma would feel comfortable enough to speak about what was going on.