EastEnders announces ‘unseen rape’ storyline to take on issue of consent

EastEnders is to take on the issue of consent with a dark new storyline this autumn.

Ruby Allen is set to be sexually assaulted on her return to Albert Square, the show's bosses have announced. The attack will take place when Ruby and her friend Stacey Slater attend a party. The next day, Ruby tells Stacey that she was raped by a fellow party guest the night before. Stacey believes her friend but doubt is soon cast over Ruby's claim when the guest's version of events turns out to be very different. Viewers won't see the assault, allowing for the storyline to play out in a way that's true to life as Ruby fights to be believed. After a 12-year break from the soap Louisa Lytton, who plays Ruby, says the show's team consulted experts on sexual assault when working on the plot. "As someone who has been in EastEnders before, I know the impact a storyline such as this can have," she said. “Although it is a huge responsibility, by working with Rape Crisis, we hope we can help to end the misconceptions about sexual violence.” EastEnders' executive consultant John Yorke says that the storyline will raise important questions about consent.

"Whilst this story centres round an unseen rape, its real focus will challenge the stereotyping and myths that can surround sexual violence and consent," he said.

"As a subject, it's difficult and incredibly moving but we hope that by EastEnders tackling this issue we can raise awareness about an incredibly important issue."