Our guiding principles and the people behind them
Discover the core values that shape Survivors Aloud's work and meet the dedicated team making a difference in the Scottish Borders and across Scotland. We are committed to fostering a community of strength, recovery, and connection.
Meet our team
Behind every service we provide is a dedicated team, each bringing their unique expertise. experience, heart and enthusiasm.
Sebastian Etienne
Founder
Pupster
Supporter and anchor
Counsellors, coaches, Safeguarding and prevention professionals
Along with a team of Lived experience Survivors and advocates
Full Supporting, involved and integrated team
Connected organisations and individuals, projects
Aligned teams
Our core values: guiding our every action
At SurvivorsAloud, our work is built upon a foundation of deeply held values. These principles ensure that every interaction, every initiative, and every step we take is survivor-led, compassionate, and effective. We prioritise safety, truth, trust, community and connection, recovery and rediscovery, togetherness and individual strength, consent in safe ways, confidentiality, accessibility, sustainability, and informative approaches. We operate with dignity and integrity, always aiming for collaborative, positive impact.
Our Policies, documents and guidance
Guiding policies and procedures. Documents and related information
Meet the dedicated people making a difference
Survivors Aloud is driven by a passionate group of individuals and organisations united by a shared vision. Our founder, Seb (Sebastian), leads the charge, often accompanied by their faithful canine companion, providing comfort and support. Our broader team includes experienced advocates, lived experience campaigners, supporters of community-based impact and protection, authors, media creators, skilled counsellors, and experienced peer workers. Together with our directors and group management team, we are committed to achieving our mission.
Sebastian (Seb)
Sebastian Etienne is the founder of this organisation and its dedicated website, www.survivorvoices.org.uk. As a lived experience advocate and peer worker and former volunteer, Seb uses their extensive knowledge to support others who have faced similar challenges. Having survived a harrowing experience of abuse, grooming, and group based sexual abuse and exploitation over decades in the Scottish Borders, they are committed to raising awareness and providing a voice for those who feel unheard. Seb's first-hand understanding of these issues allows authentic connection with survivors, empowering them to reclaim their narratives and advocate for change.
Seb's passion for helping others stems from a survived, endured and reclaimed journey, demonstrating resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Through the work of this organisation, Seb aims to create a supportive community where survivors can share their stories, access vital resources, and find the help they need to heal and thrive.
Seb has spoken with politicians, professionals, media staff, and inquiries. They have connected with allies and advocates. They are now a lived experience advocate with NSPCC Scotland. Their journey over self rediscovery, healing and reclaiming their own power of truth is something they wish to incorporate in every aspect of Survivors Aloud
By bridging the gap between lived experience and professional support, Seb is not just a voice but also a beacon of hope for many. Holding a firm belief that everyone deserves support, understanding, and a chance to reclaim their lives.
For context and clarity: Seb is a transgender guy. Born Female with female lived life and transgender experience. They are at peace with themselves and comfortable in who they are.
Visit www.survivorvoices.org.uk to learn more about the initiatives and resources available through this organisation, and visit our Community page here to join a growing community dedicated to fighting against abuse and exploitation.
Below you can read more about Seb's story
Empowering survivors across Scotland
Our commitment extends to empowering survivors and driving positive change throughout the Scottish Borders and wider Scotland. We aim to reduce isolation by playing to the strengths of our region and communities, utilising existing resources, and building new ones. Through connection and collaboration, direct involvement, and action based in truth and hope, we provide authentic, protective, proactive, and compassionate support. We actively highlight gaps in systems, safeguarding, access to support, prevention, and protection, integrating and valuing lived experience to inform our work.