Hollyoaks launch sexual abuse storyline
Hollyoaks have announced they are to work closely with charity Survivors Manchester on a sexual abuse storyline involving Ollie (Aedan Duckworth) and Buster (Nathan Sussex).
“It is once again an absolute pleasure to be working with Hollyoaks on another hugely important storyline that is so topical and relevant. Working with producers, researchers, script writers and the cast, we have been able to develop a story that is rooted firmly in the present day and will show the intricacies of grooming and the difficulty in speaking out as a young male. The team at Hollyoaks has again 100% committed to working with us to ensuring the male survivor sat at home watching the story will feel he is understood, as a survivor led organisation, this is important part of this work.” – Duncan Craig from Survivors Manchester
Hollyoaks has a long and established history of tackling challenging topics that are relevant to young people in today’s society. Working with Survivors Manchester, with whom Hollyoaks worked with on John Paul’s rape storyline, leading to an increase in funding for male rape victims, Hollyoaks will air a storyline involving Ollie and his football coach Buster.
As Ollie struggles to adjust to life in Hollyoaks with his dad Luke (Gary Lucy), Mandy (Sarah Jayne Dunn) and Ella (Erin Palmer) he begins to confide in his football coach, Buster. As the storyline progresses Buster will use his position of power as Ollie’s coach to groom him.
Buster, who is Damon’s (Jacob Roberts) father, arrived in Hollyoaks earlier in the year following the death of his ex-wife Maggie. Brody (Adam Woodward) reacted with hostility to Buster’s return, their relationship is strained despite Brody growing up with Damon, Buster and Maggie. Hollyoaks writers and producer have consulted Survivors Manchester during the scripting process, ensuring all scripts and episodes are truly reflective of the experience of survivors of this type of abuse and that the storyline is depicted in a sensitive manner.
Survivors in Manchester recently assisted ITV Granada with their male rape storyline concerning the character of David Platt (Jack P. Shepherd) in Coronation Street. The recently screened scenes have seen a 1700% increase in calls to its helpline.
“It’s a privilege to have been given this challenging storyline for Ollie. To ensure I accurately depict Ollie’s situation I have had guidance from Survivor’s Manchester and support and advice from Gary Lucy during the filming process. I hope to continue to raise awareness around this subject and encourage those who may have found themselves in a similar situation, to reach out and seek the support they deserve.” – Aedan Duckworth on playing the role of Ollie
