Episode 6: Melissa

Catriona talks to fellow survivor Melissa about what happened when she brought a case of rape all the way to court, and received a ‘not-guilty’ verdict.

Melissa isn’t her real name, but in a case like this, we cannot identify the accused for legal reasons. Those who know Melissa might recognise her story. So to keep all parties involved anonymous, she agreed we could use a voice actor to record her half of the conversation. This allowed Melissa to talk in detail about how she feels her case was handled.

In part one, Catriona and Melissa talk in detail about sexual assault and the process that follows if you report it to authorities. If you’re not in the place to listen to this right now, please head back to the feed to listen to part two of Melissa’s story.

Melissa tells Catriona how embracing her queerness and learning to enjoy dating again helped her cope in the aftermath of her trauma.

Melissa brought a case of rape all the way to court but received a ‘not guilty’ verdict. Melissa isn’t her real name, but in a case like this, we cannot identify the accused for legal reasons. So to keep all parties involved anonymous, she agreed we could use a voice actor to record her half of the conversation .

If you've been affected by sexual abuse or violence, you can find details of organisations in the UK who offer help and support at bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Episode 7: Sabah

Episode 5: Leo