A new six part series from Newstalk exploring the realities of sexual assault in Ireland, in conjunction with Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

In the first of a six part series produced by Newstalk along with Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, we speak to Charlene Masterson who was blackmailed and sexually assaulted by her father for over 7 years. Charlene recalls how the abuse first began and the shocking moment she realised her father was the cause of so much hurt. She also demonstrates the immense strength within survivors and the crucial role friends, family and society at large can play to support those impacted by sexual assault.

We’re also joined by Dublin Rape Crisis Centre CEO Rachel Morrogh to help us further understand the prevalence of sexual assault and rape in Ireland and what more needs to be done to prevent it.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast help is available. Contact Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s National 24-Hour Helpline on 1800 77 8888.

This podcast was supported by Avolon.

Each episode in this series focuses on a different aspect of a sexual assault and the aftermath. This week we look at reporting it as a crime. Kathleen Correia had never been in a Garda station before she went in to report her husband for rape and coercive control. She tells us about her experience with the Gardaí and how important it was to be believed.

71% of sexual assault victims in Ireland don’t go to the Gardaí and we wanted to get a better understanding of the hesitations as well as what happens if you do decide to report an incident. Detective Sergeant Dave Connolly from the Divisional Protective Services Unit, (DPSU) explains what they do and what the process is once a report is made.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast help is available. Contact Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s National 24-Hour Helpline on 1800 77 8888.

This podcast was supported by Avolon.