Tougher measures for domestic abusers

Domestic abusers will face tags and tougher management under new measures to protect women and girls. The new proposals go further than ever before in protecting women and girls from harassment, aggression and violence, and focus on stopping domestic abuse before it takes place. 

On behalf of constituents, I am pleased to see that the Government is boosting protections for victims in a raft of new measures. Starting immediately, anyone jailed for 12 months or more for coercive control will be placed on the Violent and Sex Offender Register, with the worst abusers electronically tagged, prevented from going within a certain distance of a victim’s home, and made to attend behaviour change programmes. 

I was also pleased to support a campaign run by Leeway Domestic Violence and Abuse Services aimed at highlighting and tackling Domestic Abuse. The White Ribbon Window Campaign was run in partnership with Norwich City Council and was launched to bring awareness to violence against women. Sexual violence or sexual abuse is never ok.

Statistics show that in Norfolk there is an increase in sexual offences but the number of people reporting or seeking support is very low in comparison. There can be several reasons as to why a survivor chooses not to speak out, such as fear of not being believed, not knowing where to go or fear of reprisal. These new measures will classify violence against women and girls as a national threat for the first time and will aim to stamp out these appalling crimes and boost protection for the victims. 

As part of my work to champion tougher sentences for sexual violence and sexual abuse, I have held meetings with the charity Leeway, Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner and the Constabulary and local councils. I regularly meet with the Chief Constable of Norfolk Constabulary to discuss the measures that they are taking to reduce crime in our fine city. 

Also from 20th February, those at risk of, or suffering from, domestic abuse will be able to receive emergency help from one of 18 jobcentres and jobs and benefit offices across the UK, and a new postcode checker will tell them their nearest location to access the service.

The Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) scheme is already in operation in over 5,000 pharmacies across the UK in over 88 cities, towns and villages. It is delivered in partnership with Hestia’s Safe Spaces. Anyone who is suffering from or fearful of domestic abuse can ask for ANI, and they will be guided to a safe and private space and offered support to call the police or specialist domestic abuse services. 

I will continue to make constituents’ voices heard when it comes to the criminal justice system. If you have any concerns or opinions which you wish for me to raise on your behalf, or any other matter, please do email me on chloe@chloesmith.org.uk or ring my constituency office on 01603 414756.