Stacey Dooley has returned to BBC Three, with a new investigative series. The first documentary Rape on Trial followed four women who waived their anonymity to talk about their experiences and their upcoming court case in which they had accused their former partners of rape. The documentary shone a light on the harrowing reality of the criminal justice process for survivors of sexual abuse and the immense challenges victims face when seeking justice. After delays in their cases coming to court, the defendants in all four trials were found not guilty.
We so grateful to Stacey Dooley for shedding light on such a difficult and deeply important topic in Rape on Trial. By bringing these conversations into the public sphere, she is helping to challenge misconceptions, raise awareness, and push for change.
For many who watched, the documentary may have raised difficult questions: Is it worth reporting? Will I be believed? Can I cope with the process? These questions were raised by Stacey Dooley herself: “I don’t think I would go to the police if I was raped”.
These are understandable concerns. But we want to send a clear message:
One of the most vital forms of support available to survivors of sexual abuse and rape is an Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA). ISVAs are specially trained professionals who will support survivors through the entire legal process. An ISVA is there solely for the survivor – independent of the police and courts – ensuring they are supported every step of the way.
ISVAs will:
In the last two weeks, Safeline’s ISVA team has supported clients through four trials where the the defendants were found guilty on at least one charge in each case. We have also witnessed defendants in some cases changing to guilty pleas and we are currently waiting with our clients for sentencing hearings.
I would just like to write a thank you to my Safeline ISVA for all the help she’s given me.
It was nice to have someone there for me when I didn’t realise how much I’d need the help or just someone there in general. You were a great help but most of all a great friend.
You really helped me through the trial and made me feel very safe and helped me stay secure during it.
You may not even realise how much you did help, but I’ll forever remember.
Safeline client after learning of the guilty verdict of her defendant