“Unforgivable” on the BBC: A stark reminder of the hidden aftermath of abuse

Jimmy McGovern’s Unforgivable is not easy viewing, nor should it be. In just one hour, the BBC drama lays bare the enduring trauma caused by childhood sexual abuse, and the uncomfortable reality that justice, even when delivered, rarely offers closure. But beyond the screen, Unforgivable reflects the lived experience of many survivors across the UK. At GLP we see, day-to-day, the harrowing stories of individuals and families whose lives are changed irreversibly by violence, abuse, and the complex systems they must then navigate in its wake

But beyond the screen, Unforgivable reflects the lived experience of many survivors across the UK. At GLP we see, day-to-day, the harrowing stories of individuals and families whose lives are changed irreversibly by violence, abuse, and the complex systems they must then navigate in its wake. 

What Unforgivable reveals

At the heart of the drama is Tom, a teenager rendered mute by the trauma of sexual abuse at the hands of his uncle, Joe. The abuse has devastated not only Tom, but his mother Anna, who is left to care for a child in crisis while battling grief, financial hardship, and emotional isolation.

The power of Unforgivable lies not in the courtroom scenes, but in the quiet moments, the silence, the shame, the strain on a family barely coping. For many, these moments feel painfully real.

These stories aren’t fiction

At GLP Solicitors, we work with survivors of abuse every day. Unforgivable resonated deeply because we’ve seen its story unfold in real life, again and again. Not just the abuse, but the long journey that follows: navigating trauma, seeking support, and often struggling to access the compensation they are entitled to.

Here are some of the ways Unforgivable reflects the real-world challenges faced by victims, and where the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme fits in:

1. Trauma doesn’t always look the same

Tom’s silence, his selective mutism, is one of many ways trauma can manifest. CICA recognises psychological injuries such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, but proving these conditions requires specialist evidence and sensitive handling.

2. Delayed disclosure is common, not a barrier

Many survivors don’t speak out for years. While the CICA scheme sets a two-year time limit from when abuse is reported to the police, exceptions can be made, especially in cases involving child sexual abuse. But victims often need help navigating this.

3. Families suffer too

Tom’s mother, Anna, is a reminder that abuse impacts more than just the direct victim. While CICA does allow compensation for certain “secondary victims,” the rules are narrow and complex. Emotional fallout, financial strain, and family breakdowns are often overlooked, but very real.

4. A conviction isn’t always possible or necessary

Joe is convicted in the drama, but many real victims never see their abuser charged. That doesn’t mean justice is out of reach. CICA claims can succeed without a conviction, as long as the incident was reported and there is supporting evidence.

Justice can feel bureaucratic

The CICA scheme exists to help survivors, but its process can feel cold, legalistic, and alienating. Strict time limits, evidential hurdles, and opaque decisions can make it hard to access fair compensation without legal support.

That’s where GLP can come in.

At GLP Solicitors, we specialise in guiding victims of abuse and violent crime through the CICA process with compassion and clarity. We’ve helped hundreds of survivors secure life-changing awards, from initial application through to appeal and tribunal, if needed.

What you should know about CICA

Survivors deserve more than silence

Unforgivable is not just powerful television. It’s a mirror held up to a society that still struggles to support survivors of abuse with the dignity, urgency, and care they deserve.

If you or someone you know has experienced violent crime or abuse, you may be entitled to compensation but more importantly, you deserve to be heard, believed, and supported.

Speak to our specialist team

Call us in confidence on 0800 111 6370
Start your claim online here.

We handle every enquiry with the care and discretion it deserves. No win, no fee. No judgement. Just help.