Victims of abuse urged to seek support after Jeffrey Donaldson conviction

Victims of sexual abuse in Northern Ireland have been urged to seek support in light of the conviction of former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.

The leader of a charity supporting those with sexual trauma said coming forward to authorities can be “deeply challenging” for victims, “requiring individuals to revisit profoundly distressing experiences”.

Donaldson, at one time one of the most influential men in Northern Ireland, was found guilty of 18 historical sexual offences against two women when they were children.

His victims, referred to as Complainant A and Complainant B, both gave evidence at the trial at Newry Crown Court.

Over the course of proceedings Complainant A was asked why she had waited until 2024 to make her reports to the police and had it put to her that she was “making this up as you go along”.

Complainant B said she blamed herself for the later abuse of Complainant A because she did not go to the police earlier, saying: “It is my fault what happened.”

Nexus chief executive Joanne Barnes welcomed Donaldson’s guilty verdict as “an important step towards justice and accountability”.

Ms Barnes said: “Often this process is not simply about reaching a verdict; it is about being heard, taken seriously, and treated with dignity.

“However, it is also a process that can be deeply challenging and, at times, re-traumatising, requiring individuals to revisit profoundly distressing experiences.

“We know that the journey through the justice system can test even the strongest resolve.

“The courage required to report and remain engaged throughout should not be underestimated, particularly when the process can feel overwhelming or prolonged.

“It is vital that outcomes such as this contribute to building greater victim confidence in coming forward.

“Too often, fear, uncertainty, or previous experiences deter individuals from seeking justice.

“We are mindful that today’s verdict may evoke a range of emotions for victims and survivors, including relief, validation, distress, anger, or sadness.

“At Nexus, we continue to support victims and survivors at every stage of their journey.

“We would strongly encourage anyone impacted by this case, or with similar experiences, to seek specialist support, which can play a crucial role in helping to navigate the impact of trauma and assist recovery.”

A spokesperson for NSPCC Northern Ireland said Donaldson held “a position of trust” which he “grossly betrayed”.

“The victims in this case, now adults, have shown immense courage in coming forward and giving evidence after decades of living with the impact of Jeffrey Donaldson’s abuse,” they said.

“Child sexual abuse can have a serious and lasting impact on victims, and it is vital they receive the support they need to move forward with their lives.

“It is so important that anyone who has experienced sexual abuse as a child knows that if they speak out, they will be listened to and supported, regardless of who the perpetrator was or how long ago it took place.

“Everyone can play a part in keeping children safe.

“This can mean asking difficult questions and being prepared to act on concerns.

“If something doesn’t seem right, it’s important that it is reported to those who can help protect a child.”