Dad abused me

Dear Suzie,

I was sexually abused by my dad when I was three. I went into care when I was seven and didn't see my dad again for another year.  After a while I started to feel uncomfortable and ended the contact. He still sends presents and cards for birthdays and Christmas.  I feel bad and think I should see him again.  My friends think I'm crazy and say they wouldn't have anything to do with him - but he's my dad.

Hannah, 14, Mansfield.

Suzie's answer:

Don't see him because you think you 'should'. If you want to see him because he's your dad and you love him in spite of what he did, that's different.

You can hate what someone has done but still love them - I think you understand this but your friends don't. If you do want to get in touch with him ask your social worker to set up a meeting in safe conditions where you aren't left alone with him, and see how you feel. It's your choice.