Understanding the impact

Wellbeing Scotland are one of our Delivery Partners. Together, we want to raise awareness about the impact of abuse and challenge stigma. Here, Wellbeing Scotland talk about changing people’s views and creating positive change.
Understanding the impact of child abuse – a pathway to better support

Many people think that we only feel the impact of child abuse during childhood. People think that harm fades away and that people can just ‘get over it’. But this is not true. We know that abuse can have a big impact throughout someone’s life. For example, it can affect:

  • mental health
  • relationships
  • self-esteem
  • our sense of identity

Everyone’s experience is different. And so are the ways people react. For example, you might notice that:

  • you feel uncertain about yourself
  • your moods seem unpredictable
  • you can suddenly feel scared, angry or upset
  • it is hard to trust people
  • you feel vulnerable or like when you were a child

Sometimes, these reactions get misunderstood by other people. We want people to have a better understanding of childhood trauma. This would help to reduce the stigma that people experience. And it would help people feel safer when they do ask for help.

We know that being able to talk openly can help people feel heard and believed. You might feel unsure about telling people about your childhood experiences. You might worry that
they will not understand. But it can be helpful to talk to people you trust and people who will not judge you.

Wellbeing Scotland has been running for over 30 years. Their team supports people who have been impacted by any form of child abuse. Find out more at www.wellbeingscotland.org
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10 Years of working together

Our tailored approach to support is made possible by working with our dedicated Delivery Partners. As we mark 10 years of Future Pathways, we say a big thank you to all the organisations and professionals we have worked with over the past decade.

Our timeline

Our timeline covers the key milestones of the last 10 Years. While the focus is on Future Pathways, we do include additional information on other significant dates. It is important to recognise that the work of Future Pathways sits within a timeline of key changes in justice and reparation

Meet our Partners

Future Pathways commissions a range of services to support people. We work with a network of Delivery Partners across Scotland, the UK and beyond. Here, we have a range of interviews across counselling, coaching, creative support and more.

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Join our Peer Support Team

We have two new roles at Future Pathways. We’re seeking an Admin Officer and an Engagement Officer to join the Peer Support team.

Today marks 10 Years of Future Pathways

Today, 29 September 2026, marks 10 years of Future Pathways and the In Care Survivors Alliance. Discover more about our journey so far, the development of the service and our approach to support.

Finding your voice through writing

Throughout our work at Future Pathways, we support people to be heard, believed and empowered. Our work with The Book Whisperers shows how writing can be a powerful tool for finding your voice, reflecting on your journey and reaching out to others.

Register with us today

It’s easy to get in touch – either by phone, email, or you can fill in this simple form to register your interest or find out more.