Rape victim in centre funding plea

A rape victim and user of the counselling group Leeds Rape Crisis was yesterday given the go-ahead to bring a judicial review of Leeds City Council's decision to remove funding for the organisation. The unique case is being brought by a survivor of ritual abuse concerned about the withdrawal of counselling support she receives at the centre.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was born into a cult and suffered abuse at the hands of some members of her extended family and friends. No criminal prosecution has so far been launched. The centre has experience of dealing with ritual abuse. The woman said: "The court has decided that I have an arguable case. It is now for Leeds City Council to answer for their actions." The full hearing will take place in August.

Patricia Wynn Davies