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The ongoing crisis of violence against women has reached a critical juncture, as highlighted by Jeff Pope, the writer behind the upcoming ITV drama *Believe Me*, which tells the harrowing stories of the survivors of John Worboys, the notorious ‘black-cab rapist’. In a candid discussion, Pope emphasises the pressing need for reform within the police and justice system, asserting that women’s safety hangs in a precarious balance, and the status quo is no longer acceptable.
A Troubling Reality for Survivors
*Believe Me* shines a spotlight on the experiences of women who faced not only the trauma of their assaults but also systemic disbelief and neglect from law enforcement. John Worboys, who was convicted in 2019, was apprehended in part due to the testimony of Carrie Symonds, who was drugged but managed to escape. Symonds’ portrayal in the series by Miriam Petche aims to bring to light the often-dismissive attitudes that survivors encounter.
Pope’s frustration is palpable as he reveals that of the rapes and sexual assaults reported to the police, a staggering 97% do not lead to charges. This statistic underscores a broader issue within the justice system, one that he believes is failing to protect those it should serve. “We’re at a breaking point,” he states. “This stuff is being done to women, and nothing changes.”
The Need for Systemic Reform
In his discourse, Pope is clear that the police must undergo a fundamental transformation. He suggests that the Metropolitan Police, despite their assurances of procedural changes, remain ill-equipped to handle cases of sexual violence effectively in 2026. “The starting point should be ‘We believe you’,” he insists, highlighting the need for a shift in culture that prioritises the voices of victims over statistical performance.
Reflecting on the historical context, Pope traces the issue back to Tony Blair’s era, when the police became overly focused on numerical targets. He and executive producer Saurabh Kakkar were taken aback during their research at the immense effort put into classifying sexual assaults as non-crimes, often leading to distressing experiences for survivors who are subjected to intrusive questioning about their character and behaviour.
Shifting Perspectives
Pope aims for *Believe Me* to serve not just as a narrative of survival but as a catalyst for changing societal attitudes, particularly among men. He expresses his hope that the series will illuminate the everyday realities women face, such as the precautions they must take that often go unnoticed by men. He acknowledges the potential for criticism regarding his position as a male writer tackling these sensitive issues but remains steadfast in his belief that the conversation transcends gender.
Kakkar affirms that sensitivity was at the forefront of the production, with multiple wellbeing coordinators and intimacy coordinators present to ensure a supportive environment for all involved, particularly the survivors whose stories were being told.
A Call to Action from Survivors
As *Believe Me* prepares to air, Symonds has voiced her hope that the drama will serve as a wake-up call for the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the Parole Board. She emphasises the urgent need for deep cultural shifts within these institutions, stating, “Far too often, women and girls are failed by the very institutions meant to protect them.”
The narrative surrounding Worboys continues to evolve, with a parole review pending this year for additional assaults not covered in the drama. The implications of this case, and others like it, resonate beyond individual stories, challenging society to confront uncomfortable truths about gender-based violence and systemic failures.
Why it Matters
The issues raised by *Believe Me* highlight the urgent necessity for reform in how sexual assault cases are handled. As we grapple with the pervasive culture of violence against women, it is clear that the time for change is now. By amplifying the voices of survivors and demanding accountability from institutions, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that have long silenced and neglected the experiences of countless women. The conversation initiated by this drama is critical in pushing for a society that prioritises safety, trust, and justice for all.
