Sarah Hicks (Part Two): Sexual Trauma, Justice Failure & Reform - Survivor-Led Change

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, we continue the second part of a powerful two-part conversation with Sarah Hicks, who shares her courageous journey through trauma, justice and long-term recovery. Speaking with clarity and unflinching honesty, Sarah reflects on her experience of surviving sexual assault and the profound psychological impact that followed. She details the systemic barriers she encountered while seeking justice - from investigative inconsistencies to structural gaps that can retraumatise survivors rather than support them. As Sarah traces her path through advocacy, she highlights how transforming pain into purpose became a catalyst for change. Working with the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Independent Advisory Group, as well as serving as a lived experience coordinator, she now champions survivor-led reform, pushing institutions to become more accountable, trauma-informed and compassionate. This episode is a sobering, essential exploration of resilience, systemic improvement and the vital role of lived experience at the heart of meaningful reform. In this episode: The long-term impact of surviving sexual assault Systemic failures and barriers within justice and investigative processes Trauma, recovery and rebuilding trust in institutions Sarah’s role in the Violence Against Women and Girls Independent Advisory Group Lived experience coordination and survivor-led reform The emotional cost of speaking out — and the power it creates Why advocacy, accountability and trauma-informed practice matter Search terms: sexual trauma recovery, survivor-led advocacy, VAWG lived experience, mental health and trauma, justice system failures, addiction recovery podcast UK, stigma and recovery. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! 🎧 If this episode connected with you, please subscribe and review. It directly helps us reach more people affected by addiction, trauma and stigma. 🔗 Then share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! Browse the full archive at 👉 www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com Believe in People is a platform for lived experience, recovery insight and honest conversation. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or working on the frontline, this podcast exists to inform, challenge stigma and inspire change. If you or someone you know needs support with drugs, alcohol, housing, domestic abuse, or mental and physical wellbeing, free and confidential help is available via Change Grow Live: 📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎵 Music: “Jonathan Tortoise” - Christopher Tait (Belle Ghoul / Electric Six) Listen & Subscribe: Spotify | Apple Podcasts 🎙️ Facilitator: Matthew Butler 🎛️ Producer: Robbie Lawson 🏢 Network: ReNew