Finally, we got the verdict we’ve been waiting for. After three years of increasing tension and drama, Helen was finally found not guilty on Sunday in an hour long jury special of The Archers. It hasn’t been easy listening, most recently with Helen’s revelations about the multiple rapes she suffered whilst with Rob, but it’s been a hugely significant storyline that has won praise across the sector and looks set to continue for some time yet.
The storyline has shown in intimate detail what it is like to live with coercive control – we have heard Rob slowly take over and undermine every aspect of Helen’s life, from her appearance to her work and in particular her parenting of her son Henry.
The hidden nature of abuse has been one of the biggest issues highlighted by this story – and one of the reasons listeners have been so frustrated. To hear the abuse happening, knowing that most of Helen’s family and friends were unaware, and not be able to stop it has made for extremely difficult listening.
Incidents where those experiencing abuse react violently are extremely rare – it is far more likely that they will experience violence themselves, especially at the point when they decide to leave their abuser – so Helen’s case is unusual. If you are planning to leave an abusive relationship then please call the local 24-hour helpline on 0808 800 0340 to talk through the safest options for you.
And of course, Helen’s situation continues to be a struggle for her, with parental maintenance issues set to be the next arena for Rob to try to control: a situation that is far too common for many survivors of domestic abuse. Read Women’s Aid CEO Polly Neate’s insightful editorial Helen Archer has got justice – but she won’t ever be free.
The case has raised funds and awareness of domestic abuse, with huge increases in calls to domestic abuse helplines. The fundraising page set up in Helen’s name has raised over £135,000. If you’d like to support Equation’s work against domestic abuse, you can do so here.