Two Years Of Fighting For The Falsely Accused

By Michael Thompson, Founder of Falsely Accused Network

This week marks two years since I launched the Falsely Accused Network – and what a journey it’s been. What started as a simple idea born out of frustration and injustice has become a vital support lifeline for hundreds of people across England and Wales.

When I founded the Network, my mission was clear: to help people falsely accused of domestic abuse find the support, advice, and legal help they so desperately need. False allegations can destroy lives – not just emotionally and financially, but socially and reputationally too. And yet, the system often offers very little in the way of guidance for those who find themselves suddenly on the wrong end of a police investigation, a family court battle, or both.

Over the past two years, I’m proud to say that we’ve built something with real impact. Our Helpline has become a trusted first point of contact for the falsely accused. We take calls every week from people who are terrified, confused, and completely alone. Some have been arrested. Some have been removed from their homes. Others are fighting to see their children or are caught in the nightmare of a family court system that too often presumes guilt without due process.

Thanks to our team and growing community, we've been able to listen, advise, and – crucially – point people in the right direction.

One of our biggest achievements has been building a reliable legal network. We now work with a range of solicitors, barristers, and experienced McKenzie Friends who understand the seriousness and complexity of false allegations. Whether it’s helping someone challenge a non-molestation order, preparing a defence against criminal charges, or navigating a messy contact dispute in the family courts, we’ve got professionals on hand who can help. And we don’t just pass names around – we build real relationships, vet those we recommend, and follow up with clients to make sure they’re getting the support they deserve.

Of course, we’re not lawyers ourselves, and we never claim to be. But we do bridge the gap. We provide clarity when people are panicking. We translate legal jargon. We offer reassurance, and sometimes just a bit of perspective when the walls are closing in.

What I’ve learned is that false allegations don’t discriminate – they affect men and women, young and old, from all walks of life. And the impact can be devastating. But over the past two years, I’ve also seen the power of community. The people who’ve used our service often end up supporting others, sharing their experiences in our support group or on our weekly Zoom calls. That’s how we grow – not just as a service, but as a movement.

There’s still so much more to do. We need greater awareness. We need more accountability in the family courts. We need reform in the way police and prosecutors handle unsubstantiated allegations. But we also need to keep showing up, every day, for the people who’ve been blindsided by injustice.

To everyone who’s supported us – whether you’ve called the Helpline, joined a support group, or referred someone to us – thank you. You’re the reason we’ve made it this far.

Here’s to the next two years. And to everyone still fighting – you’re not alone.

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Falsely Accused Network

Helpline: 0204 538 8788

www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk

Supporting the falsely accused of domestic abuse across England and Wales