THE director of a Parkstone charity that supports the survivors of childhood abuse has urged others not to suffer in silence.

Dr Zoe Pool, who works at Dorset Action on Abuse, spoke out after Andrew Mayne was jailed for the horrific sexual abuse of a friend’s child more than a decade ago.

The young woman he assaulted, who is now 20, bravely decided to speak to the Daily Echo to encourage other victims to speak to the police.

Dr Pool said: “We did decide to say something after seeing the story in the paper about Mayne.

“Our remit is to help people over the age of 16 who were abused when they were younger than 16.

“It’s not just for those who suffered sexual abuse – it can be physical, mental, emotional or a combination.”

Mayne, 51, of Whitby Road, Milford on Sea, was jailed for eight years earlier this month after being found guilty of two counts of indecent assault.

Sickeningly, he winked at his young victim as he walked into the court.

Sentencing, Judge John Harrow said the abuse was “deplorable”.

Dr Pool said: “The demand for the service we provide is high.

“Since we started keeping our database four years ago, we have had 700 referrals from across Dorset. Each week, there are 70 counselling sessions in Parkstone and a further nine in Dorchester.”

The charity launched in 2003, and Dr Pool said there are an increasing number of self-referrals.

“We do encourage that, as it means that person is really ready to talk to us,” she said.

“We would like people to know that they can talk about it with us – there’s no need to keep it a secret any more.

“There are so many survivors out there and we can help if they want to talk.”

For more information, visit the website dorsetactiononabuse.org .uk or call 01202 732424.