Spousal Abuse and Recent Cases
Spousal abuse refers to any form of mistreatment in an intimate relationship or marriage. Whether that’s emotional, physical, sexual, or psychological abuse. While the term is often associated with physical violence, it also encompasses coercive control, manipulation, financial abuse, and sexual assault. One of the most insidious aspects of spousal abuse is that it is often hidden behind closed doors, normalised within the relationship, or dismissed by others due to societal assumptions about marriage. Survivors may find it particularly difficult to recognise or report abuse when the perpetrator is a spouse, especially when trust, loyalty, and fear are deeply entangled. These cases require sensitive, specialist support, both in the pursuit of justice and in securing meaningful compensation.
For expert CICA advice call 0113 320 5000
The recent BBC article detailing the harrowing story of a woman drugged and raped by her husband over a period of years has once again brought into focus a deeply unsettling truth. Abuse can occur behind the most seemingly secure doors, in relationships founded on trust and intimacy. These cases often remain hidden for years, compounded by layers of psychological coercion, fear, shame, and societal misunderstanding.
"I have been raping you. I've been sedating you and taking photographs of you for years... He just told me as if it was, you know: 'We're going to have spaghetti bolognese tomorrow for dinner, is it all right if you pick up the bread?'"
This particular case bears a striking resemblance to the French case of Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband was eventually convicted after years of systematically drugging and assaulting her. That case sparked widespread discussion about marital rape, consent, and how the law recognises ongoing domestic abuse. These stories are helping to reshape the legal and cultural understanding of sexual violence within relationships.
Why Cases of Spousal Abuse Matter
Historically, the justice system has struggled to fully recognise the severity and complexity of sexual abuse that occurs within intimate relationships. The legal abolition of the concept that a husband could not rape his wife came only as recently as 1991 in the UK. But even with that legal precedent, societal attitudes towards spousal rape have taken time to evolve.
The BBC article demonstrates just how devastating the consequences can be when trust is weaponised. It also highlights the immense courage it takes for survivors to come forward, often years after the abuse occurred. It can take time and distance before survivors of spousal abuse can finally begin to piece together their lived experiences.
How the CICA Can Help Survivors of Spousal Abuse
At Winston Solicitors, we have seen firsthand how survivors of spousal abuse often struggle to understand that what happened to them constitutes a crime. Let alone that they may be eligible for financial compensation. The CICA scheme offers compensation to victims of violent crime, including spousal abuse. Even where there has been no criminal conviction. This is provided that the survivor cooperates with the police and that the evidence supports the claim.
In cases like the one reported by the BBC, survivors may not report spousal abuse immediately. The CICA does allow for late applications if exceptional circumstances can be shown. Abuse within a marriage, where coercive control and trauma may delay disclosure, can often meet that threshold.
We support clients through every stage of the CICA process by helping them to understand their eligibility. We then gather evidence and supporting documentation and liaise with medical providers to determine long-term psychological harm.
Our ultimate goal is to make sure that every claim is positioned as strongly as possible.
Why the Gisèle Pelicot Case Still Matters
The Pelicot case was not only a personal victory for one woman. It’s become emblematic of a wider shift in understanding. It showed that spousal abuse can be systemic, ongoing, and hidden in plain sight. It sent a message to survivors that they are not alone, and that their experience is valid and serious. Even if it doesn’t look like traditional or stereotypical forms of assault.
In the UK, these narratives are beginning to influence how compensation bodies, the courts, and society view spousal abuse. Survivors may now feel more confident in seeking justice, not only through the criminal courts but through schemes like the CICA.
A Safer, Supported Path to Redress
If you have experienced spousal abuse, you may be eligible for compensation through the CICA. This financial support is not a substitute for justice, but it can help rebuild lives. Giving survivors a chance to access therapy and regain lost independence.
Our team of experts are here to help you navigate this process with compassion and expertise. To speak to a CICA specialist in confidence, call 0113 320 5000 or email @email.
You are not alone. We are ready to listen, and we are here to help.
