Why do people struggle to report sexual violence? How do police officers make fair decisions when emotions are running high? And what happens when the person being accused holds power or influence?
In this episode of It’s Probably Fine, Lucy Smith speaks with Maria Canning, a former police sergeant with 16 years’ experience across two police forces, including specialist work in domestic abuse and violence against women and girls (VAWG).
The Russell Brand case provides the starting point for a wider conversation about sexual violence, justice, the courage it takes to report and the responsibility organisations have when someone speaks up.
Lucy and Maria explore:
They also share stories from their own law enforcement careers, including how a single incorrect letter on a search warrant stopped an entire police operation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and meeting Maria Canning
02:00 The Russell Brand case
06:00 The courage it takes to report sexual violence
10:00 What happens after someone reports?
15:00 Neurodiversity and the experience of victims
22:00 The National Decision Model
25:00 Managing personal feelings during investigations
29:00 When one wrong letter stops a police operation
34:00 Celebrity, power and the fear of not being believed
38:00 What employers and organisations can learn
42:00 Supporting someone who discloses sexual assault
47:00 ADHD, neurodiversity and accountability
50:00 The emotional impact of policing
53:00 Where to find support
Chapter timings are approximate and should be checked against the final edited recording.
About our guest
Maria Canning is a former police sergeant and domestic abuse specialist. She is also a founder and chair of the Police National Dyslexia Association and works to improve neurodiversity and disability inclusion with n-attc.co.uk
About It’s Probably Fine
Hosted by Lucy Smith, founder of Inclusive Change, It’s Probably Fine explores decision-making, leadership, human behaviour and what happens when the decisions we make have serious consequences.
Support and information
This episode discusses sexual violence, rape and domestic abuse.
If you have experienced sexual violence, whether recently or in the past, confidential support is available.
Rape Crisis England & Wales: 0808 500 2222 (24/7)
NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centres: https://www.nhs.uk/SARCs
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
Rape Crisis Scotland: 08088 01 03 02
You do not have to report an assault to the police to seek specialist support.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Find out more about Decidr:
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#ItsProbablyFine #RussellBrand #ViolenceAgainstWomenAndGirls #SexualViolence #DecisionMaking #Neurodiversity #DomesticAbuse
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