On 23rd July 2024, the first National Policing Statement on Violence Against Women and Girls was published. The report highlighted that at least 1 in 12 women will experience male violence each year, though the true figure is likely far higher. We remain committed to ensuring that both this report – and the realities it exposes – are not forgotten.
Usually, this feature shares the story of a woman who has recently accessed WMWA’s services. This month, however, we wanted to highlight the courage of survivors Zoe Watts and Amanda Stanhope, who recently spoke publicly to ITV News about the abuse they experienced while unconscious at the hands of former partners.
The women have since launched #EndEyeCheck, a survivor-led campaign calling for stronger legislation around the creation and sharing of abuse material linked to drug-facilitated sexual violence. Their campaign also aims to raise awareness of the online spaces where this abuse is normalised, shared and encouraged.
Both women endured years of abuse carried out by men they trusted. In their ITV News interview, they describe the confusion, fear and trauma of living through experiences they did not fully understand at the time, alongside the devastating impact this abuse has had on their lives.
They have also spoken about the influence of Gisèle Pelicot, whose bravery during the trial of her former husband in France sparked international conversations around consent, victim-blaming and violence against women. By waiving her anonymity and speaking publicly, Gisèle sent a powerful message that shame belongs with perpetrators – not victims – a message that has resonated with survivors across the world.
Zoe and Amanda’s decision to speak publicly is both courageous and important. Their testimonies help shine a light on forms of abuse that often remain hidden, while reinforcing the urgent need for specialist support services, survivor-led advocacy, and greater public awareness around violence against women and girls.
At WMWA, we know how important it is that survivors are believed, supported and able to access help without fear or shame. We remain committed to amplifying survivor voices and challenging the attitudes and systems that allow abuse to continue.
You can read the full ITV News feature and watch the interview here:
ITV News – Survivors launch campaign to end sexual abuse of unconscious women
See the full One in Twelve series here