Hollyoaks Abigail watches Dee Dee as grooming story grows
Hollyoaks viewers have seen Abigail watching Dee Dee closely as the soap's confirmed grooming storyline begins to take shape in disturbing new scenes.
Hollyoaks is beginning to move its confirmed Abigail and Dee Dee safeguarding storyline from announcement to what viewers are actually seeing on screen, with Abigail's interest in the teenager becoming increasingly noticeable.
Recent scenes have shown Abigail paying close attention to Dee Dee and watching her from a distance. Those moments carry much greater significance now that it is known Abigail will pursue an inappropriate friendship with the grieving teenager in the months ahead.
Dee Dee continues to struggle following the death of her mum Diane, and Abigail is expected to become an increasingly important presence in her life. For Dee Dee, the connection will initially feel like comfort at a time when she is dealing with a devastating loss, but Abigail is an adult in a position of trust and the relationship will begin crossing boundaries that should protect her.
The latest scenes are therefore important because Hollyoaks does not need to suddenly introduce Abigail's interest in Dee Dee when the story intensifies. Viewers are already being shown small moments which establish that Abigail has noticed her and is taking a particular interest in what she is doing.
There is also considerably more context surrounding Abigail now than when the storyline was first announced. Her relationship with Cleo has broken down after Cleo told her she did not want it to continue, and Abigail subsequently reacted by smashing up a bathroom in anger.
The storyline has been developed with input from The Derwent Initiative and the NSPCC and will explore grooming, safeguarding and abuse of power. As Abigail continues to strengthen her connection with Dee Dee, the responsibility for maintaining appropriate boundaries remains entirely with her as the adult.
If you have been affected by grooming or are worried about a young person, support is available. Contact Childline on 0800 1111 or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000, and call 999 if someone is in immediate danger.
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