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Book event explores paths of healing after historic abuse
A recent book event hosted by a Bristol-based law firm has shone a light on the long and often painful journey from historic sexual abuse to recovery.
Award-winning author Iain Peters spoke at Glass Wharf about his autobiography The Corridor, which traces his experience of abuse at boarding school and his path towards justice, healing and a meaningful life.
The discussion moved many in the audience to tears as Iain reflected on the trauma, resilience and the vital role of counselling and support in recovery.
His abuser, John Earle, a former presenter of the BBC children’s series Jackanory, was jailed for four years in 2017 after admitting indecently assaulting Iain while working as a deputy headteacher at a school in Devon between 1957 and 1961.
Award-winning author Iain Peters spoke about his experience of abuse at boarding school and his path towards justice, healing and a meaningful life during the book event
In his book, Iain describes how his love of the outdoors, particularly the physical and mental challenge of climbing, helped him rebuild confidence and begin to process the trauma of childhood abuse.
It also explores the “secret shame” and stigma that prevented him from reporting his abuser for some 50 years.
Showing great courage, Iain took the bold decision to walk into a police station in his 60s to report the assault, which ultimately led to the successful conviction of his abuser.
The event was hosted by Enable Law, a Bristol-based firm specialising in abuse cases.
During the event, he spoke about the importance of therapy and writing as part of his healing journey.
Reflecting on the evening, Iain said the Bristol event felt “especially significant”.
He said: “While the book has been cathartic, my overriding goal is to help other victims of sexual abuse find a way to free themselves from the shame and guilt that is the legacy of rape and allow light back into their lives.
“Enable Law showed real allyship by creating space for these conversations.”
Now 77, Iain’s combination of lived experience and literary skill, distilled in The Corridor, has been recognised with the 2025 Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature.
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Gary Walker, head of abuse at the firm, said: “By speaking so openly about recovery, Iain shows others that it is possible to move forward, find their voice and reclaim their lives.”
Iain was joined by Dr Kim Bond from the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC).
Together, they explored what meaningful support for survivors looks like, from legal routes to emotional and social care, and how recovery and joy can exist alongside justice.
A portion of proceeds from book sales at the event was donated to NAPAC to support survivors across the country.
Author Iain Peters with Gary Walker (left) from Enable Law and Dr Kim Bond from the National Association for People Abused in Childhood
To buy a copy of The Corridor, visit www.iainpeters.com
All photos: Rob Stewart
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