The discovery of an individual’s child sexual offending by the non-offending partner (NOP) is a watershed moment marking the beginning of a harrowing journey. This journey has been found to encompass the immediate shock, ruptured families and friendships, practical and financial struggles, and, eventually, the NOP’s attempt to rebuild their lives. The purpose of this paper was to explore the impact of the discovery on NOPs following a police home visit with an arrest/search warrant (known as “the knock”) and its aftermath. It further aimed to understand NOPs’ experience of support.
In this qualitative study, the author conducted semi-structured interviews with three NOPs who were at least two years post “knock” (and not in an active investigation) and three professionals working closely with NOPs. Thematic analysis determined key themes.
NOPs experience significant ongoing harm following this discovery, and support is mainly inadequate. The four key themes that emerged were discovery trauma, stigma and shame, loss and isolation, and support for indirect victims.
Recommendations include professional and public awareness in recognition of NOPs as indirect victims; national implementation of indirect victim support officers; increased provision of peer-support; trauma-informed approaches to minimise harm.
Previous research has typically overlooked the direct impacts on NOPs, particularly their support needs. This research illustrates the devastation suffered by NOPs (and their families) and highlights the need for an improved provision of support services.
