Schoolgirl took overdose after sexual assault allegation ‘wasn’t believed’, inquest hears

Southport: A heartbreaking story has emerged about a 12-year-old girl named Semina Halliwell. She tragically overdosed on tablets after feeling like no one believed her when she reported a sexual assault. Her mother, Rachel, shared this during an inquest, revealing how Semina changed after the incident.

Rachel described Semina as a happy child who started to struggle after beginning at Stanley High School. In March 2021, Semina confided in her mom about the assault that had happened in January. Rachel was emotional as she recounted how the experience shattered Semina’s mental and physical well-being.

After reporting the assault to the police, Semina felt pressured and withdrew her complaint. Rachel said, “She felt like she wasn’t believed.” It’s heartbreaking to think that a child had to face such a tough situation, especially with the added stress of being told it could take years to go to court.

Rachel pointed out the lack of support from the police, social services, and the school. She firmly believed that if Semina had received better help, she might still be alive today. Sadly, Semina faced bullying and violence after making her allegation, which only added to her distress.

Despite everything, Semina decided to pursue her complaint, feeling that enough was enough. She was set to be interviewed by the police in June, but the chaos around her made it hard for her to cope. Just before her overdose, she expressed her frustration to the police officers at home, saying, “I’ve had enough of this.”

Her brother found her after she took the pills, and she was rushed to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, where she sadly passed away on June 12, 2021. A doctor later shared that Semina had regretted her decision and only wanted to sleep for a few days. The inquest is expected to last for seven days, shedding light on this tragic case.