Ruby Allen struggles to cope next week in the aftermath of her rape by one of Martin Fowler’s friends.
Early in the week she arrives to see Stacey, in a state, and shows her friend some cruel comments online about her.
Stacey is livid and becomes convinced Martin’s mates are behind the comments and has a go at him about it.
She then tells Ruby that she really needs to go to the police unaware that Martin has some new information about events that night.
He shares the info with Stacey who – wanting to make sure Ruby has everything clear in her head – asks her to talk her through exactly what happened.
But after talking to Stacey, Ruby loses her nerve and decides she doesn’t want to go to the police after all.
Seeing how difficult Ruby is finding the whole situation, Stacey opens up to her friend and tells her all about her rape experience and what she ended up doing after not going to the police.
Quick recap – she bludgeoned her rapist Archie Mitchell to death with the bust of Queen Victoria from the pub.
Realising that Stacey understands and emboldened by her words, Ruby finally heads to the police station.
Will she go through with making a statement?
It was revealed earlier this year that Ruby would be at the centre of a rape storyline which would bring the issue of consent into the public arena.
An EastEnders spokesperson told ED!: “Although viewers will not see the attack, the storyline is set to highlight the complex issues that surround sexual violence which is something Rape Crisis are keen to raise awareness of.”
Yvonne Traynor, CEO of Rape Crisis South London, said: “It is so vital to the safety of men, women and children to understand sexual violence and not to make assumptions or believe the myths and stereotypes that are often portrayed.
“EastEnders have taken this responsibility very seriously and ensured that their portrayal of sexual violence has been thoroughly researched and is based on realism which is, sadly, so prevalent in our country today.”
Meanwhile, EastEnders’ Executive Consultant John Yorke said: “From the original story of Kathy and Willmott-Brown, to the abuse of Little Mo by her husband, Trevor, and Linda’s attack by Dean, EastEnders has always been at the forefront of dealing with these topical and sensitive issues.
“Whilst this story centres round an unseen rape, its real focus will challenge the stereotyping and myths that can surround sexual violence and consent.
“As a subject, it’s difficult and incredibly moving but we hope that by EastEnders tackling this issue we can raise awareness about an incredibly important issue.”
Louisa Lytton who plays Ruby said: “As someone that has been part of EastEnders before, and as a viewer of the show, I know the impact a storyline such as this can have.
“And although it is a huge responsibility, I feel honoured to be part of something that, by working alongside Rape Crisis, we all hope can help end the many misconceptions surrounding sexual violence.”
If you or someone you know needs confidential advice and support for similar issues, contact Rape Crisis in England or Wales, Rape Crisis Scotland if you are north of the border, or Nexus NI if you are in Northern Ireland.
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EastEnders continue tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One