As well as the legal system, the documentary also explores our societal views of rape. How do you think we currently view rape in this country?

I do think, thankfully, that our understanding of rape is evolving very, very slowly. Years ago, we associated it with strangers lurking in the park, and while cases like this do still horrifically happen, it’s not the norm. 90% of complainants know the person they are accusing of rape. So, there are many more emotions involved, as it might be someone they were in a previous relationship with or had previous consensual sex with.

It’s incredibly difficult to navigate. And while we are evolving, there is so much work that still needs to be done. The onus, wrongly so, is on the accused to come forward and say: “This happened to me.” And then to prove it.

The women involved in the documentary waived their right to anonymity. What did their bravery teach you?

These women showed pure courage. They also showed complete selflessness that was evident so early on. If you asked any of them “Why are you doing this?”, they’d say: “Because I don’t want it to happen to anyone else.” They embodied this idea that shame has to shift sides. I’ve luckily never found myself facing what they were, so I was just absolutely floored by their courage.

In each of their trials, I respect the law and the legal outcome, but I think it is fair to say the way they were treated was not acceptable. As I filmed with them for years, it really made me question: how long is too long to wait for your day in court? But despite this, these women gave me three years of their lives – the most difficult years of their lives – to help people understand what the situation is really like. And that’s truly amazing.

When people watch the documentary, what do you want them to take away from it?

I’m very realistic about these things – I’m under no illusion that these two films will radically change the landscape. But I do think they could help prompt us to have level-headed, rational and calm conversations about rape – and that could lead to permanent change.

I think what’s most powerful about this whole thing is the women themselves. They waived their right to anonymity to let us into their lives and I want to recognise what a huge thing that is to do. I’ve already had messages from other women telling me about their experiences, so I think if these films can contribute to a much-needed situation, then I’m proud of that.

Stacey Dooley: Rape On Trial is available to watch now on iPlayer.

“There is so much work that still needs to be done” – Stacey Dooley on filming her new documentary, Rape On Trial, and why the legal system is failing women