In 2017/18, 63 women and 7 men were killed at the hands of their partner or ex-partner.
It defies belief that this can be the case in modern Britain.
This government is determined to tackle domestic
abuse in every form that it takes.
All victims of domestic abuse should feel safe and supported as they recover from this terrible crime.
As Communities Secretary, I am introducing new measures to ensure that this is the case.
(Image: Chris J Ratcliffe)
Through the Government’s Domestic Abuse Bill we are strengthening our police and criminal justice system so that offenders are swiftly brought to justice.
Because abuse takes many forms, we’re introducing the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse to specifically include economic abuse as well as controlling and manipulative behaviour.
And we’re introducing new orders to stop abusers from continuing to offend.
As well as bringing abusers to justice, more must be done to address the effects abuse has on individuals and their families.
I want to ensure that those leaving destructive relationships do so safely, without fear of further abuse.
I recognise that for so many victims, there is a real fear that the support network just won’t be there to help them.
No one should have to choose between being trapped and scared in their own home or living on the streets.
There needs to be a clear way out.
That is why I am now introducing a new legal requirement on councils to provide dedicated support to survivors.
This means providing victims support in safe accommodation, including the specialist advice and advocacy they need to recover from psychological and physical trauma.
This new duty on councils will help save lives by protecting survivors and their families while providing desperately needed support for those escaping destructive and abusive relationships.
Currently, victims of domestic abuse are up against a postcode lottery, with support varying from council to council across the country.
How can it be right that someone in Cambridge or Newcastle can access the dedicated support they need, but someone elsewhere in the country can be denied it?
I have seen examples of places which are providing excellent care – specialist counselling, play therapy and tailored advice on housing and employment.
I want this to become the norm for everyone.
We have to make sure that this quality of care is universally available to everyone in safe accommodation – regardless of their background.
And because refuges are so critical, I am also announcing more than a 20% increase in funding next year for local authorities to help them keep these vital services running, ahead of the new responsibilities coming into force.
Refuges and the brilliant people who run them deserve and will receive our total support.
By working together, we can turn the tide on domestic abuse once and for all.
