Domestic abuse is a pervasive and insidious problem that affects millions of people around the world, and the UK is no exception. In fact, according to a report by the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 2.3 million adults in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2020. This is a shocking and unacceptable statistic, and it is clear that more needs to be done to protect the victims of this despicable crime.
Cllr Shazna Muzammil is pleased that the Home Secretary Suella Braverman is taking a strong stance on this issue, and her recent press release highlights the government's commitment to tackling domestic abuse head-on. In her statement, Braverman emphasises the importance of raising awareness of domestic abuse and providing support for victims, as well as holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The landmark Domestic Abuse Act of 2021 is an important step forward in the fight against this heinous crime. It recognizes the many forms that abusive behaviour can take and takes a strong stance on protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
The fact that the Act recognizes children as victims for the first time is a crucial step forward in protecting the most vulnerable members of society. Cllr Muzammil have seen first-hand the devastating impact that domestic abuse can have on children, and it is heart breaking. Witnessing or experiencing abuse can lead to long-term social and emotional issues that can affect a child's ability to lead a normal life. Cllr Muzammil once met a family where the mother was being abused, and her two sons were struggling to make friends because they wanted to stay home to protect their mother, regardless of the abuse they faced. This is just one example of how domestic abuse can cause children to miss out on important social experiences, affecting their ability to form healthy relationships and develop the social skills they need to succeed in life.
The creation of new offenses of non-fatal strangulation and threats to disclose intimate images are also important in addressing the full range of abusive behaviour that victims may face.
The Act's establishment of a statutory duty on local authorities to support victims and survivors and their children in safe accommodation is also an essential part of protecting victims from further harm.
The new Strategic Policing Requirement that puts violence against women and girls on the same threat footing as terrorism, child sexual abuse and serious and organized crime is a clear statement that domestic abuse will not be tolerated.
The new risk assessment tool that will help police forces identify domestic abusers most likely to commit the greatest harm is also an important step forward in preventing further harm to victims. The change in the law to automatically manage dangerous offenders with a conviction for controlling or coercive behaviour is also a crucial part of protecting victims and ensuring that these dangerous individuals are held accountable for their actions.
Inaction is not an option when it comes to combatting domestic abuse, and the steps being taken by the Home Secretary and the government are an important part of creating a safer, more just society for all. By continuing to raise awareness, provide support for victims, and hold perpetrators accountable, we can make progress in reducing the incidence of domestic abuse and creating a world in which everyone is free to live without fear of violence or harm.
Braverman's efforts to combat domestic abuse in the UK are laudable, and they demonstrate a clear commitment on the part of the government to prioritise the safety and well-being of victims. By working to raise awareness, provide support, and hold perpetrators accountable, the UK can take a significant step towards reducing the incidence of domestic abuse and creating a safer, more equitable society for all.
