Abuse survivor says Ellie Williams caused harm for genuine victims

Sammy Woodhouse was abused by gangs in Rotherham from the age of 14.

She said she thinks Williams' case has put back progress for victims but encouraged others to come forward.

Williams, 22, is serving an eight-and-a-half-year prison sentence for making false claims of being beaten, raped and trafficked in Barrow and further afield.

Cumbria Police (Image: Cumbria Police)

Ms Woodhouse told the BBC: "I've spent every day for ten years reliving my trauma to try to raise awareness and encourage people to come forward and then you get someone like Ellie come along with all these lies.

"It feels like it does take us back quite a long way. It's been really challenging. She's caused a lot of harm.

"There are so many of us that come forward to tell the truth.

"We just want to get justice and support in some way.

"When Ellie came forward everybody got behind her.

"To find out she wasn't being honest and all the harm it's caused - not just to the three people that she falsely accused but to us as a cause - it feels like it [has undone progress]."

She urged people not to be put off from reporting sexual abuse or seeking help.

"There will be people who don't want to come forward after seeing everything that's happened," she said.

"I would always encourage someone to come forward.

"I know it's difficult. I've been there and lived it.

"You've got to keep pushing forward whether that's to police or support services."

Head of Crime for Cumbria Constabulary Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Stalker said the force was committed to tackling sexual abuse.

He said: “I encourage any victim, whether of recent or non-recent offending, to come forward today.

"You will be liaised with discreetly and sensitively.

"We have a number of specially-trained officers to help and support you, as well as strong relationships with partners and voluntary organisations.”

Contact Cumbria Police on 101.