This morning I telephoned “Operation Saphire” - the Metropolitan Police’s unit dealing with sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse. I explained the situation I am caught in and, having discussed the options open to me, the officer gave me some surprising advice.

She explained that medical negligence is always hard to prove and that criminal intent is even harder still to prove. She advised me that I should either travel to a different part of the country and use an assumed name or travel abroad in search of medical assistance.

The last thing, frankly, that I expected from the police was such incredibly practical thinking. that my mother and all of my friends are advising me to leave the country was surprising enough. That the Met agree is a shock beyond belief.