As a charity that works with children and families that have experienced domestic abuse or crisis situations, we are deeply saddened to hear that a new report published by The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has declared violence against women and girls (VAWG) a national emergency.
The 70-page report by the NPCC was the first national analysis of the scale of VAWG. The extent and extremity of VAWG has been emphasised, suggesting that forces should prioritize their response to the issue as they would terrorism and organised crime.
The report has sadly stated that:
- 1 in 6 murders are domestic abuse related
- At least one in every 12 women will be a victim of violence every year, amounting to 2 million victims.
- Domestic abuse related crimes have increased almost 40% in the last 5 years (including sexual assault, domestic abuse, stalking and harassment)
- 1 in 20 adults will be a perpetrator of this violence – or in other words, it’s become even more likely that we all know someone who is being violent.
Despite these worrying figures, prosecution and conviction rates have fallen highlighting how perpetrators are often not punished for their actions. The report stated that as of March 2023, only 4.4% of domestic abuse cases recorded by the police resulted in the perpetrator being convicted.
The reasons for this include limited prison capacities and huge backlogs in courts. This comes at the same time as calls for major prison reform suggests as massive proportion of female prisons are to be released.
The UK’s Minister for Safeguarding, Jess Phillips, wrote on social media that the report’s findings show that VAWG is a “national emergency” and a “threat” to Britain’s security and prosperity.
Maggie Blyth, the NPCC’s lead for VAWG, has said that VAWG has reached “epidemic levels … in terms of its scale, complexity and impact on victims. We need the support and direction of government to intervene and address the current problems within the criminal justice system and lead the way on a whole-system approach to VAWG.” Blyth added that the NPCC is “absolutely determined to turn the tide on violence and abuse faced by women and girls and will continue to work tirelessly to do better for victims.”
If you or somebody that you know needs help and support, please reach out to Centre 56. We are here for families in crisis, whatever the situation.
We are here to provide a kind ear to talk to and provide you with the support that you need: 0151 727 1355 (Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm).
If you would like to donate, and help us be there for more women and children with experience of domestic abuse, please visit our enthuse page here.
