Psychotherapist Bairbre Kelly On Sexual Violence And Survivor Support

Éist Co-Founder Bairbre Kelly, co-founder of Éist, discusses the Russell Brand case, the abuse of power, public reaction and the importance of supporting survivors of sexual violence.

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been convicted of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women, following a trial at Southwark Crown Court in London. The offences took place between 2004 and 2009, during the height of his entertainment career. The case has reignited conversations around sexual violence, accountability and the treatment of survivors who come forward with allegations against high-profile figures. It has also raised wider questions about the culture of silence that can surround abuse and the importance of listening to those affected.

Joining the conversation is Bairbre Kelly, a counsellor and psychotherapist, co-founder of Mullingar-based organisation Éist – Saying No to Silence, and founder of Therapists Against Harm. Through her professional work, Bairbre advocates for survivors of sexual violence and the importance of trauma-informed support, bringing valuable insight to the wider conversation around abuse, accountability and justice.

Reflecting on the public reaction to the verdict, Bairbre said there had been “an awful lot of people holding their breath to see what happened”.

For survivors of sexual violence, cases involving high-profile individuals can carry particular significance. The outcome can influence public conversations around accountability, the courage it takes to come forward and whether survivors feel they will be heard and believed.

Reflecting on the language used by the judge during the sentencing, who described Brand as a “predator” Bairbre feels the strength of the judge’s words was particularly striking when viewed from an Irish perspective. Bairbre explained that the Irish justice system does not typically use the same kind of direct language when addressing cases of sexual violence. Bairbre says both she and some of her clients found the wording shocking, but welcomed the more explicit language used within the courtroom, highlighting the importance of how survivors’ experiences are acknowledged and addressed by the justice system.

While Brand’s celebrity status and influence brought considerable attention to the case, Bairbre stressed that sexual violence is not confined to the world of fame or high-profile individuals. She explained that, at its core, sexual violence is about an abuse of power, which can occur in any setting and involve people from all walks of life, regardless of their position or status. The focus, she emphasised, should remain on the behaviour and the power dynamics involved, rather than simply the public profile of the person accused.

Bairbre also spoke about the reaction on social media, saying she was surprised by the level of support Russell Brand received from both men and women. She highlighted the importance of being mindful of what is shared online, particularly when discussing cases involving sexual violence and survivors. Bairbre pointed out that negative comments and criticism directed at survivors can have a lasting impact, while the high-profile individuals being defended may never even see those remarks. As Bairbre puts it, “he won’t even see it”, raising questions about who is really affected by the words people choose to post online.

Concluding her message, Bairbre encouraged anyone who has experienced sexual violence to consider reaching out for support, emphasising that no one should feel they have to navigate the experience alone. Organisations such as Éist provide a safe and supportive space for people seeking help dicussed in full on Shine A Light.

Those wishing to access support or learn more about the services available can contact Éist by email at info@notosilence.ie or by phone on 085 171 5177. Further information is available through its website and social media channels.

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