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Helen decides not to report Rob to the police

Polly Neate

CEO, Women's Aid

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Archers fans can't wait to see Rob brought to justice - and I'm one of them.

I'd love to see him convicted and punished, for both rape and the new crime of coercive and controlling behaviour, the abuse which The Archers has powerfully shown.

But for survivors of domestic abuse, a criminal conviction is not always the priority. Helen is still recovering from the physical and psychological effects of trauma: reliving her experiences in court again might be too much.

In addition, the ignorance, prejudice and victim-blaming from the public - and even professionals - who work with survivors often puts many women off from pursuing prosecution. Look at the ‘Why Women Don't Report’ hashtag on Twitter since Donald Trump's boasts of his sexual conquests - or crimes, as they’re known.

In common with many survivors, Helen can't face the treatment she’d likely get in court. Above all, though, she is thinking of her sons – again, a typical reaction. I'm regularly astonished by the degree to which mothers put their children first in situations of danger.

So do I want Rob in court? You bet. Do I respect the decision of every woman who doesn't want to press charges? Absolutely.

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