Ruth’s messages sometimes appear enthusiastic - but at other times she says she is scared, traumatised and wants to stop. Solicitor Rachel Horman-Brown explains why messages in controlling relationships cannot be read in isolation. Former chief prosecutor Nazir Afzal reflects on the challenges around issues of consent in the justice system.
If you are suffering distress or despair, details of help and support in the UK are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.
Presenter: Catrin Nye
Writers: Catrin Nye and Jamie Bartlett
Exec Producer: Kavita Puri
Series Producer: Ruth Mayer
Commissioner: Bridget Curnow
Sound Design: Ivor Manley
Title Track: David Wrench
Researchers: Emily Parsons and Liv Facey
Production Management Assistant: Daisy Carol
Production Manager: Mandy Osborne
All the WhatsApp Messages you hear are voiced by actors.
Published on Tuesday, 16th June 2026.
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