Betsy and Dylan on Coronation Street / ITV
Coronation Street has launched a new storyline aiming to increase the awareness of non-fatal strangulation and strokes.
The plot began in Wednesday’s episode with youngster Betsy (Sydney Martin) – daughter of Lisa Connor-Swain (Vicky Myers) – rushed to hospital having suffered a stroke at home.
As she awoke to news of what happened to her, Betsy soon suffered a second stroke – but after being stabilised, she revealed that boyfriend Dylan (Liam McCheyne) had strangled her during consensual sex, even though both of them believed that he was only applying minimal pressure.
“Coronation Street has always pushed boundaries when it comes to telling challenging, thought-provoking stories, and this story is no exception,” said Corrie producer Kate Brooks.
“Shining a light on the dangers of this all too common trend, we wanted to chart Betsy and Dylan’s story as they navigate the catastrophic implications of a moment of naivety, and the impact not only on them, but also on their families and the wider community.
“By consulting extensively with IFAS, the Stroke Association and Safeline, we aimed to handle Betsy’s journey with the care and sensitivity it deserves while sparking a difficult and somewhat contentious conversation that helps raise awareness of the risks involved in partaking in such acts.”
The storyline will develop over the coming months as Betsy moves from hospital to home and adjusts to her new reality as she recovers.
