Low Conviction Rate for Sexual Offences at Leeds and Reading Festivals

Recent reports reveal a troubling trend of sexual violence at the Leeds Festival, with 16 rapes reported between 2018 and 2023, none resulting in prosecution. The only conviction during this period was for a sexual assault in 2018. Activist Sharrocks has been advocating for increased action from Festival Republic, the festival's organizer, local councils, and police, but has seen limited progress. She expressed concern over the normalization of violence against women, suggesting that society has become desensitized to these alarming statistics. Festival Republic has released its own data, indicating 42 reported sexual assaults at Leeds and 68 at Reading during the same timeframe, leading to only one and 14 arrests, respectively. In response to the rising concerns, the organization has enhanced on-site support, including a dedicated police patrol and a tent operated by Safe Gigs for Women. However, Sharrocks argues that these measures do not address the systemic failures preventing women from accessing justice. Survivors have shared their experiences, highlighting the lasting impact of such incidents. One victim recounted a distressing encounter at a festival, where she felt physically threatened despite being in a crowded space. This ongoing trauma has left her with a heightened sense of fear in similar situations, even when surrounded by family. Thames Valley Police acknowledged the complexities of policing large festivals, noting that many cases remain under investigation, which contributes to the lack of prosecutions. The situation underscores the urgent need for systemic change to protect festival-goers and ensure justice for victims.