In recent weeks I’ve been supporting a local survivor of rape who has been badly let down by the justice system. Laura, a name used to protect her anonymity, was subjected to multiple rapes, had piping hot water poured over her and at one point had a sock stuffed into her mouth to stifle her screams.

It is unacceptable that her attacker is now due to be released back into the community after serving just half his sentence. Recently, the law was changed to stop the early release of rapists on licence, and Laura and her family want the new rules to be applied retrospectively.

I don’t think I’ve ever met a survivor of rape or domestic abuse who hasn’t been failed by the criminal justice system. It is rare for cases to even reach trial and for defendants to be given jail sentences. I am now working with Laura and her family to use every option available to us to give them some measure of protection and comfort.

Please support Laura and her family by signing their petition at: http://chng.it/kYm5schp