Itv's 'believe me' series shines light on systemic failures in rape cases

ITV's new four-part drama series, 'Believe Me', is a searingly frustrating watch that shines a light on the systemic failures of the British police when it comes to investigating and prosecuting rape cases. The show tells a dramatised version of the crimes committed by John Worboys, one of Britain's worst sex offenders, but the real focus is on the lives of the women he assaulted and their fight for justice to be believed.

Believe me: a frustrating but vital watch

The first episode follows the story of Sarah, one of Worboys' victims, as she tries to be heard by the police and get justice. It's a harrowing experience that's sadly not unique to Sarah, with many women facing similar disbelief and mistreatment when reporting rape. Harriet Wistrich, CEO of the Centre for Women's Justice, notes that the series accurately portrays the devastating impact of investigative failures on survivors.

From the hospital nurse dismissing Sarah's claims to the police questioning her as if she were the suspect rather than the victim, the show depicts a painful and infuriating process. The police's focus on Sarah's cocaine use rather than the assault itself, and their failure to take down Worboys' details, only adds to the frustration.

Yet for all the anger and despair, the series also shows the resilience and determination of the women who refuse to be silenced. Sarah's own struggles to be believed and her fight for justice are inspiring, even as the system continues to fail her.

Believe Me is a vital watch, not just for its gripping drama but for its powerful portrayal of a broken system and the women who dare to challenge it. While the full series will explore the eventual pursuit of justice for Worboys' victims, the frustration and disbelief they faced is a sobering reminder of the work still to be done.