Hollyoaks confirms powerful episode as struggling Ro reaches out for help

Ro Hutchinson reaches out for support as he contacts an LGBTQ+ helpline (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Hollyoaks will highlight the importance of positive peer support and specific LGBTQ+ dedicated aid in a special episode as part of Ro Hutchinson’s (Ava Webster) story.

Ro, as viewers know, has been exploring his gender identity and began socially transitioning last year with support from mum and dad Diane (Alex Fletcher) and Tony (Nick Pickard).

The teen was subjected to horrific bullying at the hands of fellow pupil and villager Arlo Fielding (Dan Hough), son of Marie (Rita Simons), who began a relationship with Tony in the wake of the show’s time jump.

Arlo’s abuse escalated earlier this year, with Ro receiving transphobic messages from the bully, which led to him self-harming with alcohol.

Diane uncovered Ro’s ordeal when she realised Arlo was sending her son messages taunting him to take his own life.

Ro found solace in an online LGBTQ+ forum, making a new friend named Nina, who encouraged him to attend a trans support group, with Diane deciding to go along too.

Things, however, take a turn in Ro’s personal life and thus he decides against attending. As he reaches crisis point, he contemplates suicide.

In a special episode, set to air in May, Ro follows the good advice of friend Kathleen-Angel McQueen, who has done the right thing in suggesting he seek help.

Ro calls an LGBTQ+ helpline and the support he receives during the call helps him take steps towards safety. The helpline scene is portrayed from both Ro’s perspective and that of Eve – the helpline volunteer.

Eve is portrayed by Hollyoaks writer Emma Frankland (she/her), who also wrote the episode in question. Emma is an award-winning writer, theatre maker and performer whose work often focuses on issues surrounding gender identity.

Emma said: ‘Having spoken to Samaritans, Papyrus and LGBT Switchboard, the crossover of what everybody said was so similar. 

‘They are volunteers mostly; they’re giving up their time to be there because we know the power that a conversation has to change someone’s path and to alter the route that they’re on…. 

Hollyoaks’ titles will use the trans flag colours for the episode in question (Picture: Lime Pictures)

‘I’m really happy we’re showing Ro in this truthful recognisable place and we’re showing that there is an alternative and there is hope…

‘Having met with real volunteers, I felt strongly that I wanted to play that part, and I think it was exciting having three guest roles in this episode, all of whom were trans.’

Alex Matheson (she/her), Director of Inclusion at LGBT Foundation said: ‘We’re proud to have worked with Hollyoaks to shape Ro’s journey, reflecting the lived experiences of many trans people. The upcoming scenes – where Ro finds community, attends a support group, and reaches out to a helpline – highlight the hope and well-being that support services can bring. 

‘LGBTQ+ helplines and support services like those provided by LGBT Foundation offer a safe, confidential space for anyone exploring their gender identity – whether at the start of their journey, facing uncertainty, or simply needing someone to talk to. They’re also a vital source of help for loved ones wanting to better support trans and non-binary people. 

‘Airing during Mental Health Awareness Week, this storyline is a powerful reminder that no one has to navigate their journey alone. We’re grateful to Hollyoaks for working with us and LGBTQ+ communities to ensure this story feels true to life and shows the incredible impact that free-to-access helplines and support services can have.’

Diane has been determined to support Ro (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Monica Hawley, Media Adviser at Samaritans added: ‘Samaritans is pleased to have supported Hollyoaks in ensuring that Ro’s journey reflects the real experiences of people in a mental health crisis.

‘The inclusion of a helpline call in this storyline highlights the importance of reaching out for support when things feel overwhelming and the positive impact this can have, even if you feel like things are hopeless. 

‘Experiencing suicidal thoughts can feel incredibly isolating, particularly when also facing bullying and discrimination. Storylines like these remind the public that support is out there and no-one has to face their struggles alone.’

Hollyoaks streams Mondays to Wednesdays from 6am on Channel 4’s streaming platform, or catch episodes on TV at 7pm on E4.

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