Boris Johnson has promised the introduction of domestic abuse legislation that would offer further protection for victims. The Domestic Abuse Bill would place a legal obligation on council’s to seek secure housing for victims and their children who are fleeing an abusive relationship.
The Bill was first proposed under Theresa May’s Government in July, which provided the first Government definition of both financial abuse and manipulative, non-physical behaviour. However, developments on this have recently fallen through, following the announcement of a five-week suspension of Parliament in the run up to the Queens Speech.
Concerns have been heightened following the suspension of Parliament, with Women’s groups and charities placing increasing pressure on the Prime Minister to ensure that this legislation will remain a government priority.
Women’s Aid co-chief executive, Adina Claire, stated that “A sustainable funding model for refuge accommodation and specialist domestic abuse training for all police officers are urgently needed – without these we don’t stand a hope of defeating this horrific crime.”
Women’s Aid have also published recent statistics proposing that women escaping domestic abuse face an increased risk of homelessness due to a shortfall of refuge bed spaces in England of approximately 1,715.
Despite the increasing pressures placed on Mr Johnson, he has recently stated “Domestic abuse shatters lives and tears families apart. We are fully committed to tackling this horrific crime - which is why the Queen’s Speech will confirm we
will be reintroducing domestic abuse legislation in the next session.”
However, criticism’s still remain conspicuous as Law Society President Simon Davis, highlighted that in order for new legislation to be successful it is paramount that there is necessary funding placed into “legal aid, support services, education and wider government policy”.
This suggests that perhaps there are wider considerations that need to be discussed by Parliament to ensure the adequate protection of domestic abuse victims. Although for now, it is vital that the government acknowledge the role that the Domestic Abuse Bill will have in protecting individuals and their families.