Police have urged potential victims of sexual assault on reality TV show Married At First Sight UK (MAFS) to contact them. This follows a number of women making allegations of rape and sexual misconduct while participating on the Channel 4 programme.
Allegations in BBC Panorama Documentary
In a BBC Panorama documentary, Shona Manderson accused her on-screen partner of sexual misconduct. Two other women also alleged they were raped by their on-screen husbands. The Metropolitan Police stated they are aware of media reporting regarding these allegations but have not yet received any criminal reports.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: "We are aware of media reporting relating to allegations of rape and sexual assault following the airing of a television programme on Monday, May 18. At this time, we have not received any criminal reports in relation to this matter. We will be making approaches to the relevant production teams to ensure that anyone they have spoken to is aware of how to report any criminal allegations to police."
The police continued: "We continue to encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, to get in touch with us."
Show Format and Denials
The show, produced for Channel 4 by independent production company CPL, pairs single people matched by experts who then "marry" and meet for the first time on their wedding day. These "marriages" are not legally binding, but couples go on a "honeymoon" and move in together afterward.
In a statement, Ms Manderson's on-screen partner Bradley Skelly categorically denied "any allegations of sexual misconduct, or that he was controlling." Channel 4 said in a statement released on Monday: "In April, Channel 4 was presented with serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, allegations that we understand those contributors have denied."
Show Pulled from Streaming
The channel has since removed all previous seasons of Married at First Sight UK from its streaming platforms. Baroness Kennedy, chair of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), called for an investigation into the women's claims: "I think Channel Four really should be bringing in some sort of investigatory team to have a look at this, and it should always be external."
Support for Victims
Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673).
