Survivor's courage will help others

ANONYMITY for the victims of sexual offences is an important feature of our justice system. It was introduced, contrary to the general principal of open justice, because without it many would not come forward to report attacks and the guilty would go unpunished.

But, rightly, the law allows survivors to waive this and tell the world about both their terrible ordeal and how they continue to fight on with daily life. It is a very personal decision, and a truly courageous one.

Sally Maby, featured on today's front page, made that choice because she hopes that putting a human face to her experiences will give others the strength they need to come forward and report similar crimes committed against them.

Miss Maby even faced the man who preyed upon her as a young girl in the courtroom. Normally, a victim's words on how they have been affected are presented in a written statement. Instead, Miss Maby stood up in front of her attacker to tell the court how she would wake up, crying and lonely.

Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk

myprint-247

View details

Print voucher

Our heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.

Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk

Contact: 01858 468192

Valid until: Sunday, June 30 2013

Her courage is remarkable.

Sexual offences are often about an attacker exerting power over a victim, but in this case Miss Maby has not only wrested back control of her life but empowered others to do the same.

She talks of finally "being free". She deserves it.