Reporting back: Domestic Abuse Bill

In July, the Government introduced a new bill to protect victims while helping to bring the perpetrators of domestic abuse to justice. In Chloe’s absence, whilst she is on maternity leave, her office is pleased to share the following information with you.

 

Too many people’s lives are being ripped apart because of physical, emotional or economic abuse. It is currently estimated that around 2 million adults in England and Wales experience domestic abuse each year. This is why the Government is taking action through its Domestic Abuse Bill along with a wider package of measures which will bolster the protection for victims and will help expose and bring to justice the abusers of this horrific crime. This package of legislative and non-legislative action is important in ensuring that society has zero tolerance towards domestic abuse and enables victims, communities and professionals to feel empowered to confront and challenge it.

 

Some of the key actions the Government is taking to achieve this is by:

 

·         Introducing the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse. This will recognise that abuse can take many different forms – including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and emotional;

·         Establishing a Domestic Abuse Commissioner to drive the response to domestic abuse. They will stand up for victims, monitor the provision of domestic abuse services and hold the Government to account;

·         Prohibiting the cross-examination of victims by their abusers in the family courts. It is estimated that there are 11,000 cases each year which may be affected by this new provision;

·         Making 120 additional commitments to tackle domestic abuse. This includes £8 million of Home Office funding to support children and additional services for disabled, elderly and LGBT victims; and

·         Rolling out Clare’s Law nationally to protect people from potentially abusive situations. This allows the police to disclose information about a partner’s previous history of domestic violence or violent acts.

These actions along with others such as funding to support children affected by domestic abuse will ensure that victims of domestic abuse receive the proper support and protection they need. Given the murder of Chloe’s constituent Kerri McAuley in 2017 it is important that domestic abuse laws are improved which is why the Government is introducing such a comprehensive package which Sandra Horley, Chief Executive of Refuge has said provides “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address domestic violence”.

 

To find out more about the Domestic Abuse Bill click here.