Hollyoaks' Dee Dee Hutchinson (Chloe Atkinson) supports Abigail Matthews (Brooke Vincent) after a breakdown next week, unaware of the school counsellor's true nature. Abigail, played by Coronation Street star Brooke, targets Dee Dee as part of a grooming storyline.
Dee Dee's struggles
Dee Dee has struggled since mum Diane's (Alex Fletcher) tragic death. After using drugs, she was sent to rehab by dad Tony (Nick Pickard), where she first met Abigail. Abigail later moved to the village and became a counsellor at Hollyoaks High, staying close to Dee Dee.
Abigail's breakdown
Upcoming scenes see Abigail reignite a spark with Cleo McQueen (Nadine Mulkerrin), but Cleo ends their romance. Abigail seems fine until she breaks down in The Dog bathroom. Dee Dee overhears and later finds Abigail in her car, also in distress.
In coming weeks, Abigail will pursue a 'friendship' with Dee Dee and push to strengthen their bond when school term starts in September.
Working with charities
Hollyoaks is working with TDI (The Derwent Initiative) and the NSPCC to handle the subject with care. TDI aims to prevent sexual offending through awareness and its Leisurewatch scheme, training public spaces to spot abuse. The storyline intends to raise awareness about safeguarding, grooming, and abuse of power, encouraging transparency with friends and family.
