3. The Bird In the Cage

Katie Bridget Murphy explores the story of Sally Challen - a mother who killed her husband after decades of coercive control. Through her son David Challen’s testimony, as well as expert insight, this episode reveals the hidden patterns of psychological abuse, the barriers to leaving, and the devastating impact on families.

Writer and Producer: Katie Bridget Murphy

Senior Producer: Ophelia Byrne

Executive Producer: Elizabeth Clark

Sound Engineers: John Benson and Davy Neill

Sound Design: Bill Maul

Artwork: Tom Cunningham

Assistant Commissioner: Prabhjit Bains

Commissioning Editor: Khaliq Meer

Judged: A Mother’s Love is a BBC Audio Northern Ireland production with BBC Sounds Audio Lab.