Warning: The following article contains discussion of sexual violence and abuse that some readers may find upsetting.
After harrowing drama Three Girls earlier this year, a documentary featuring the people at the heart of the real story has left viewers heartbroken.
BBC One's The Betrayed Girls followed the events of the Rochdale abuse case, where underage girls were groomed and sexually exploited by a ring of men.
The manager of the Rochdale Crisis Intervention Team, Sara Rowbotham, former detective constable Maggie Oliver, and chief prosecutor Nazir Afzal all helped expose the ring and fought to save the girls back in 2012.
After watching the extremely distressing documentary, many viewers felt let down by all the different authorities who failed to rescue the girls from the horrendous abuse, and how long it took to actually expose it.
Although it was extremely difficult to watch, the programme brought the heartbreaking issue of grooming and child sexual abuse to light, and many viewers felt it important for people to know about it.
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There was a lot of anger from viewers about the meaning of consent, and when it comes to children, they can never consent.
There was widespread praise for Sara and Maggie, plus prosecutor Nazir Afzal, who listened to the girls and fought for their voices to be heard.
Although viewers were angry and heartbroken for what the girls had to go through, there was a sense of determination that it wouldn't happen again and hope that the programme might help anyone suffering to speak out.
The Betrayed Girls aired on BBC One.
Childline is here for any child or young person who needs to talk. Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of sexual violence. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
Tasha is a freelance writer for with a particular interest in the representation of women in film and TV. After graduating with a Literature degree then journalism qualifications with News Associates a few years further back than she’d like to admit, Tasha began her freelance career. She’s worked as a writer, editor and commissioning editor for a number of publications including Digital Spy. She is also a theatre critic. LinkedIn
