The Guardian view on reducing violence against women: ministers must follow through on a bold promise
Labour pledged to halve violence against women and girls within 10 years, with sexual assault remaining a significant concern, affecting 1.9% of the population in the year to March 2025, 82% of whom were female.
The strategy to address this issue has been delayed due to fiscal constraints and involves a cross-government approach, including the Home Office, education, and justice reforms, with Jess Phillips serving as the Home Office minister responsible.
There is concern about unclear ownership and accountability if the multiple issues are bundled together without clear leadership.
Prevention efforts emphasize healthy relationships education, a referral pathway for boys with harmful attitudes, and a planned national summit on men and boys scheduled for next year.
Anne Longfield has been appointed as chair of the national inquiry into grooming gangs, which is expected to begin soon.
The national rollout of domestic abuse protection orders and the pledge for more specialist officers have been welcomed; however, there are concerns about the lack of budget and how resources will be redirected, with the women’s sector reporting insufficient consultation.
Funding for victim support services has increased by £550 million; nevertheless, backlogs in the crown court threaten the timely trial of sexual violence cases, while family courts face issues including lack of legal aid and unregulated expert witnesses.
Ultimately, meaningful change depends on the delivery of the promised radical reforms, and ministers must follow through on their commitments.
