I am a survivor of rape. I was raped by my manager twice and psychologically abused constantly throughout the entirety of my professional relationship with him. I reported the incidents to the police but was informed that there was insufficient evidence and that no charge could be brought. This is sadly very common in these types of cases.

Following a successful course of therapy, I felt strong enough to write about some of my experiences in and the battle I have faced with my mental health.  At one point I felt the need to share my specific experiences as I felt that I had a responsibility to warn other vulnerable women about the individual in question. I was then sued for libel by my perpetrator in an attempt to silence me.

I initially represented myself in this case as I had no funding for lawyers. This was immensely complex and difficult as I have no legal background and am suffering from ill mental health, triggered by having to relive the incidents. I am now being supported by experienced lawyers who have agreed to work for very low costs, but I have no funds to support my case any  further. There is a court hearing listed in April and I have been ordered to provide a medical report to deal with my mental health by the Court.  I need to pay for this urgently so that I can continue to defend myself which I simply cannot do without legal help...

With your help I can stand up for my right to tell my story and hopefully encourage other women to do the same.

What’s next

We are now preparing for a hearing in April, but my mental health is suffering and I urgently need to pay for an expert medical report which has to be provided to the Court. I am much stronger with the support from my lawyers but I have no funds to pay for them. I may soon be faced with the difficult decision of whether to defend my case, or protect my own health. I truly believe that this case could help protect other women in the long run.

Wider impact

This is much bigger than just myself. Without representation women in my position will continue to be silenced.   

Without a lawyer to help me, my voice as a woman survivor with mental health problems cannot be heard. Thank you for reading, sharing and contributing. Your support means the world to me.