A MUM who was abused by her partner for years has advised Broadchurch writers on the show’s rape storyline.
The unnamed victim spent time on the set of the hit ITV drama with actors Julie Hesmondhalgh and Olivia Coleman to ensure the scenes are as authentic as possible.
The rape survivor hopes the programme will encourage others victims to come forward.
Episode one of the third series sees middle-aged divorcee Trisha – played by Julie, 47, who starred as Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street– report a brutal sex attack.
The adviser told The Mirror: “I hope any rape victims watching come forward.
“The best thing Broadchurch is doing is showing there’s support for them.”
Scriptwriters also consulted with Dorset Rape Crisis’ Head Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) Tracy Parsons who praised their efforts to portray things sensitively.
“They went to every length to get the story right,” she said.
“They even sent me the first scene where Trisha meets with her ISVA and listened to the feedback.
“It was tweaked just to be a bit more empathetic.
“People often feel they can’t come forward for a mix of reasons: fear, humiliation.
“That first person they meet could be the first person they’ve ever told so it’s a very important relationship.”
It is hoped the drama series, which is set in Dorset and is set to attract millions of viewers, will confront the notion that rapists only prey on young, vulnerable and drunk women.
Julie has previously spoken out against the glamourisation of rape scenes on television.
She said: “I’m glad they went for someone who looked like me – someone as old as me, instead of a pretty young girl.
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“I get sick of the way rape is portrayed on television and in films. It’s usually someone young and attractive.
“It makes the audience think there’s something sexual about it. But rape is an act of violence against women.”
Tracy Parsons said that people often don’t realise how prevalent the crime is, saying that she could get five referrals in one morning alone.
She added that it’s “brilliant” that Broadchurch is highlighting the support available to victims.
