MWA Strategic Lead, Claire Harris, consults on Coronation Street domestic abuse storyline

In last night's episode of Coronation Street, viewers saw a pivotal moment in the Todd and Theo storyline, one that has followed Todd’s experience of domestic abuse in his relationship with Theo, ending with Todd bravely reporting his abuser to the police.

Our Strategic Lead, Claire Harris, consulted with Coronation Street team on this storyline, a truly amazing opportunity to help mould this storyline to truly reflect some of the realities clients we support experience themselves. At MWA, we meet many people who are currently in abusive relationships or have taken the steps to leave, so we know how common this issue is, and the impact that it can have on the individuals. To consult on such a popular television show is an honour, and we hope that this storyline provides greater insight into the issue of domestic abuse. It is happening to people on your street, in your towns and in your workplace.

When asked about her time consulting on Coronation Street, Claire had this to say:

“The crime survey for England & Wales estimates that around 3.8 million people experienced domestic abuse in the annual survey ending March 2025 which included 2.2 million females and 1.5 males.

Manchester Women’s Aid received over 5,000 referrals during that time for Manchester residents alone. Yet we still know that there are so many people out there struggling alone, not feeling safe enough to report or supported enough to leave.

This storyline with Todd has really highlighted the coercive nature of domestic abuse, the impacts it can have in all areas of someone’s life and the barriers and challenges they can face to safely leaving. No one should ever have to face this alone and support is out there.”

In the words of one of our brave survivors who took those steps “When you walk away, you’re not just leaving abuse you’re walking towards freedom, life and healing, breaking the cycle and to start living again.”

The episode heavily featured the colour purple, as a symbol of courage, survival and peace, with many popular Coronation Street characters and guests wearing the colour. The colour purple is used internationally by many organisations and charities to represent domestic abuse awareness.

Coronation Street worked closely with Galop, an LGBT+ charity helping people with experiences of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

If you need support, you can contact us on 0161 660 7999 or email referrals@manchesterwomensaid.org

Alternatively, you can contact Galop on 0800 999 5428.