Young, vulnerable, and new to a big city: I became the target of an online predator

QueerAF Podcast: Season 4, Episode 3 – Five years ago, Rory Boyle was drugged and sexually assaulted by two men he met through Grindr. Now, five years later, he’s sharing his story to help others feel less alone, take action, and stay safe – listen now

In this episode: 

Five years ago, Rory Boyle moved to a new city, full of hope and excitement - but young, vulnerable, and having grown up without LGBTQIA-inclusive sex education, he became the target of an online predator.

It’s taken years for Rory to come to terms with what happened, but by speaking out, he hopes to turn trauma into empowerment, showing how important safety, consent, and open conversations about sex and dating are within queer life.

Rory reflects on how a lack of inclusive sex education left him unprepared for navigating relationships, apps, and boundaries. Together with David Stuart, a social worker and chemsex expert, he discusses the culture around hookup apps, the risks of isolation, and the importance of support and community for survivors.

With thanks to Survivors UK and Stay Brave for their continued work supporting survivors of sexual violence.

If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, visit:

• survivorsuk.org
• staybrave.org.uk/help

Featuring:

• Rory Boyle – Presenter and event producer
• David Stuart – Social worker and chemsex expert
• Sam Thomspon - Outreach and Engagement Officer at Survivors UK

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