Commissioner calls for changes to Domestic Abuse Bill

It was reported in the media last week that the Domestic Abuse Commissioner Nicole Jacobs has predicted that demand for domestic abuse services will increase in England during the third national lockdown. There was already an significant increase the numbers of people reaching out to services and Charities that support victims of domestic abuse owing to the last lock down.  Importantly Nicole Jacobs called for a statutory duty to fund community services to be included in the Domestic Abuse Bill, which places a new legal duty on councils to provide secure accommodation for those fleeing violence, and their children.

This again highlights the importance of this Bill and how badly society is in need to further support and training for victims of domestic abuse. A situation in the home where someone is suffering from domestic abuse is traumatic enough without having the additional restrictions and dangers of the pandemic. Victims are trapped in their situations with no interaction from any other support whether this is professional or simply being able to meet a friend or family member. Not having any space or privacy from the preparator could also mean that victims have no opportunity to request help or seek support. If Local Authorities were able to offer a safe place for victims and their children to flee to during the pandemic this would reduce the danger of harm for many victims and be a step in the right direction in implementing protection and highlighting the  need for Government legislation to reflect the needs of our society and to help bring change and reform for families and individuals dealing with domestic abuse.  The Domestic Abuse Bill is still on its journey through Parliament.

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