BBC - Radio 4 Woman's Hour -The beginning of the end of anonymity in sexual assault cases?

Last week the Labour peer Lord Campbell-Savours used his parliamentary privilege to name a woman whose allegations of rape resulted in a man being wrongfully sent to prison for three years.

The woman has a life-long right to anonymity under the law, as do all complainants in sexual offences cases, but is this a right which is open to abuse? And why this special protection for the victims of sexual offences – is a sexual offence any worse than a violent assault?

Jenni is joined by the journalist Carol Sarler, herself a victim of a violent sexual assault, who believes that all sexual assault complainants should be named and Dr. Nicole Westmarland an expert in criminology and Chair of Rape Crisis who believes that the right to anonymity encourages victims to come forward.

AngelSurvive
For people of all ages that have been affected by abuse of any form (emotional, mental, sexual, incestuous, physical, violence, rape or assault).The site is for people to support each other, with sections for helplines as well as a chat room and forums where you can get advice or general support.

CJS Online
Information about the Criminal Justice System, including an interactive ‘virtual walkthough' for victims of crime, to explore what happens when you proceed with a criminal case.

Disclaimer
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites.

Retired? Downsizing? Moving home to be nearer the kids?