The Argus group has partnered with SCARS Bermuda to help the charity reach more adults with its training programmes.

Along with making a financial donation to make the ‘Darkness to Light Stewards of Children’ training programme free, Argus has allowed the charity to use its conference room facilities for the training.

The programme is aimed to educate adults on how to prevent, recognise and react to child sexual abuse, using video segments of survivors of sexual abuse sharing their stories, along with experts. Group discussions are also encouraged and an interactive workbook are also used.

Founder and executive director of SCARS, Debi Ray-Rivers said: “SCARS is a relatively new charity in Bermuda and this training is a key way for us to engage the community in our mission.

“Our ultimate goal is to reach every adult in Bermuda with this important information. The sad reality is that 88 percent of child sexual abuse cases go unreported, so it is impossible to know how prevalent the issue is. That’s why having preventive measures in place on the Island is vital.”

Argus group CEO Alison Hill meanwhile said the training provided by the charity is an essential service.

“Argus wanted to ensure that the charity can reach as many people as possible at no financial cost to the individual. Trained ‘stewards of children’ are empowered to help victims reveal the damaging secret of sexual abuse.”

The next training session will take place on Saturday at the Argus Building. Space is limited, so those interested in participating are asked to register by calling Ms Ray-Rivers on 537-7949 or e-mailing dabi.ray-rivers@scars.bm.