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The conversation surrounding violence against women has reached a critical juncture, with writer Jeff Pope boldly asserting that the justice system must evolve to adequately support survivors. His latest ITV drama, *Believe Me*, examines the harrowing experiences of women targeted by John Worboys, the notorious “black-cab rapist.” Pope’s work highlights the pressing need for reform in police handling of sexual assault cases, as the statistics reveal an alarming reality: out of every 100 reported rapes, only three lead to charges.
A Story of Survival and Struggle
*Believe Me* tells the true stories of the women who suffered at the hands of Worboys, illustrating the failures of the Metropolitan Police to believe and protect them. Among those who bravely came forward was Carrie Symonds, who, despite being drugged, managed to escape. Pope is keen to portray the narrative with sensitivity and care, as he believes these stories are crucial for societal change. The show features actor Miriam Petche in the role of Symonds, aiming to shed light on the injustices faced by victims.
Pope’s commitment to these narratives stems from a sense of urgency. “We’re at a breaking point,” he stated. “These incidents are still happening to women, and yet nothing seems to change. We need to catalyse a transformation in how these cases are approached.”
The Police’s Role Under Scrutiny
Although Pope stresses that he does not harbour an anti-police agenda, he argues that the Metropolitan Police are ill-equipped for the challenges they face in 2026. Citing a fixation on statistics from the era of Tony Blair, he expresses frustration over the prioritisation of numbers over genuine investigations. “The starting point should be ‘We believe you,’” he insists, underscoring the need for a fundamental cultural shift within law enforcement.
The writer has observed how the police often dismiss cases prematurely, labelling sexual assaults as non-crimes and subjecting survivors to questioning that undermines their dignity. He recalls stories of women being asked whether they were “the kind of woman who would wear red nail varnish,” a question that trivialises their trauma and character.
A Broader Perspective on Gender Issues
Pope acknowledges the potential criticism he may face as a male writer tackling these issues. However, he maintains that the treatment of survivors transcends gender. “It’s not just about being a man or a woman; it’s about addressing something that affects everyone,” he remarked. His hope is that *Believe Me* will not only resonate with women but also challenge men to reconsider their understanding of women’s experiences.
The production team, including executive producer Saurabh Kakkar, prioritised the wellbeing of survivors throughout the process. With numerous wellbeing coordinators and intimacy specialists on set, they aimed to foster a supportive environment. Survivors of Worboys visited the filming location, ensuring their stories were told with authenticity and respect.
A Call to Action from Survivors
As Worboys faces a parole review this year for additional assaults, Symonds has voiced her hopes for *Believe Me* to act as a wake-up call. “Far too often, women and girls are failed by the very institutions meant to protect them,” she asserted. “The treatment of the victims in this case was truly shameful. Reform matters, but above all, we urgently need a profound shift in culture.”
Why it Matters
The issues highlighted in *Believe Me* resonate far beyond the screen, reflecting a societal crisis that demands attention and immediate action. The staggering statistics on sexual violence reveal a systemic failure that leaves too many survivors without justice and support. By bringing these stories to light, we are not merely entertaining; we are engaging in a vital dialogue that could catalyse meaningful change. It is crucial for all of us—regardless of gender—to advocate for a justice system that believes survivors and holds perpetrators accountable. Only then can we hope to create a safer world for everyone.
