False memory isn't a subject you hear much about. If you haven't heard about it, consider yourself lucky. Its impact on the individuals involved and their families can be catastrophic, not to mention the cost to the justice system.

Psychiatrist, Paul R McHugh, describes false memory as “a condition in which a person’s identity and interpersonal relationships are centred around a memory of traumatic experience which is objectively false but in which the person strongly believes." (British False Memory Society website)

In this episode, Kevin Felstead shares the complexities of working with false memory cases within the UK legal system. He clarifies the difference between false memory allegations and real cases of sexual abuse. In talking about the implications of false memory, Kevin also introduces listeners to the work of the British False Memory Society.

Kevin is Director of Communications at the British False Memory Society.

Further information

British False Memory Society - UK website

How False Memories Corrupt Our Identities, Politics, and Justice System - Julia Shaw, TEDxBergen

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Episode information

Music by Grant McLachlan

Resources

Worldwide

International Domestic Violence Resource Guide 2021

UK

Refuge - National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Citizens Advice - Help for domestic violence and abuse

Victim Support - Help for domestic abuse

NHS - Getting help for domestic violence and abuse

Al Anon - Family group support alcohol addiction, drug addiction and addictive behaviours

Samaritans - FREE Help - Tel: 116 123, E: [email protected]

NHS Depression Support Groups

NHS Mental Health Services