Emmerdale is planning to explore the issue of sexual violence in a powerful new storyline for Charity Dingle.

A new issue-based plot sees Charity left devastated when she’s sexually assaulted by Dr Caitlin Todd, who’s been blackmailing her in recent weeks.

Emma Atkins, who plays Charity, explained: “This has been one of the most demanding and significant storylines I’ve had to navigate as Charity.

“We know her as a tough, resilient character, but this trauma will expose a deep, raw vulnerability that has been heartbreaking at times to play.

“I hope this storyline gives even one person the courage to speak out or helps others understand the quiet devastation of trauma.”

Show producer Sophie Roper added: “Charity’s storyline will explore the impact of sexual violence, and though this heinous act is fundamentally about power, we’ll explore the complexities of how Charity processes her trauma when the perpetrator is a woman.

“With little conversation surrounding female-on-female assault, we’ll explore the overwhelming feelings of isolation many survivors experience and will examine the disparity between the legal term sexual assault and the fact that many women in Charity’s position feel this minimises what’s happened to them, because they feel like they’ve been raped.

“Though difficult viewing at times, Charity’s resilience will inspire hope as she confronts what has happened to her.”

Emmerdale‘s heartbreaking new storyline begins on Sunday 7 June, as Dr Todd’s blackmail plan continues. She recently demanded £100,000 in hush money from Charity after discovering that the Woolpack boss had lied about the paternity of baby Leyla, the child she carried as a surrogate for her granddaughter Sarah Sugden.

In upcoming scenes, Charity stands up to Dr Todd by calling her bluff – daring her to tell Sarah the truth.

When Todd backs down, Charity hopes that her enemy will finally leave her alone. However, Todd’s malicious side resurfaces when she subjects Charity to the sickening assault.