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When Maya (played by Louisa Clein) and David Metcalfe (Matthew Wolfenden) got together on Emmerdale it seemed to be just another in a long line of flippant relationships for the father-of-one shopkeeper. But what David hasn’t yet realised is his tumultuous and unpredictable love life has started to really take its toll on his son Jacob (Joe Warren-Plant). With a supportive and seemingly genuine influence from Maya, David had no idea the connection Jacob would feel towards her. And in recent episodes, it became clear Maya was struggling with her own romantic feelings towards the 15-year-old school child.

Jacob and Maya are currently hiding the fact the teenager tried to kiss her after a glass of wine on her birthday, but while the teacher continues to protest she only cares about David, the lines are getting more and more blurred between them. Now it has been revealed children's charity Barnado’s have not only been working closely with the producers and writing team at the northern soap, but the plot is set to get a lot darker and could even see Jacob suffering from emotional abuse as his relationship with Maya progresses. Speaking about the partnership and what’s to come for the storyline, Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw revealed the charity’s advice will have an impact on the way David, Jacob and Maya behave. “It was important for us to tell this storyline authentically,” she explained. “So we approached Barnardo’s for advice on scripts and character behaviour. “Our researchers, story team- along with actors Louisa, Matthew and Joe Warren - met with Barnardo’s experts and young men who have been supported by the charity.”

Emmerdale spoilers: Jacob and Maya are involved in a grooming plot on the soap

Emmerdale spoilers: Producers have hinted at a dark future for the storyline

It was important for us to tell this storyline authentically Emmerdale producer

Laura continued: “We met some incredible individuals and were moved by their courage and willingness to help us tell this story sensitively. “Hopefully it will make young people and their parents more aware of these issues and their impact.” Barnardo’s Chief Executive Javed Khan went on to shed more light over the difficulties young boys face in speaking up about abuse and grooming, and that it happens more often than many people think. “We were really pleased to be approached by Emmerdale,” he began. “We advised on the serious subject of adult women grooming and abusing boys. “Too often this is seen as ‘taboo’ and not talked about.

Emmerdale spoilers: Maya and Jacob have been developing a secret connection