The Gatehouse, an agency that supports survivors of childhood sexual abuse, has experienced a significant increase in calls following the disclosure of Alice Munro’s daughter, Andrea Skinner’s, story of abuse by her stepfather. Since Skinner’s essay was published in the Toronto Star on July 7, 81 survivors have reached out to the Toronto-based agency for support. Many of them specifically mentioned Skinner’s story and the media coverage surrounding it.
Karen MacKeigan, the intake coordinator for the Gatehouse, shared that before July 7, the busiest month for the agency this year had been January, with 35 survivors reaching out for support. The increase in calls is not only from survivors but also from individuals and organizations looking to provide support to others. The calls have come from various parts of Canada, as well as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Arthur Lockhart, the founder of The Gatehouse, emphasized how Skinner’s voice has had a global impact, highlighting the strength and courage it takes for survivors to come forward and share their stories. Skinner herself turned to the Gatehouse for help decades after the abuse, finding a place where she finally felt heard.
The essay revealed that Skinner’s stepfather, Gerald Fremlin, pleaded guilty to indecent assault in a court in Goderich, Ontario, in 2005. This admission was not widely known until Skinner’s essay was published. MacKeigan noted an increase in older survivors reaching out for support in the past month.
Lockhart highlighted the lasting impact of childhood sexual abuse, with many survivors carrying feelings of shame, guilt, and fear well into adulthood. He mentioned that individuals in their 60s, 50s, 40s, and even 70s and 80s have sought support at the Gatehouse, finally opening up about the pain and anguish they have carried for decades.
If you or someone you know is struggling and in need of support, help is available 24/7 through Canada’s national suicide prevention helpline at 988. In crisis situations, do not hesitate to call 911 or reach out to your local distress center. The Gatehouse can also be contacted at 416-255-5900, extension 222.
The increase in calls to The Gatehouse following Andrea Skinner’s disclosure highlights the importance of sharing stories of abuse and seeking support to heal from the trauma. The bravery of survivors like Skinner in speaking out serves as an inspiration for others to come forward and begin their journey towards healing.