We need to change how society thinks about domestic abuse.
Will the government’s proposed changes help?
Key points of the draft Domestic Abuse Bill:
- A new definition for Economic Abuse
This will include victims being denied access to jobs and/or money.
It will also include being forced to take a loan. - Proposed Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs)
This would allow police and courts to intervene earlier where abuse is suspected.
Courts could electronically monitor suspects' whereabouts before they have been found guilty of - or even committed - a crime.
- The creation of an independent domestic abuse commissioner.
- Giving domestic abuse victims the same status in court as those who have suffered modern slavery or sex offences.
- Putting into law the scheme where police can disclose information about previous violent offending by a new or existing partner.
The aim of the new bill is to change how we think about domestic abuse.
It is not just physical abuse that victims suffer; there is sexual abuse, economic abuse, and emotional abuse too.
Samantha Lee, head of Family Law at Swain & Co Solicitors, comments,
“Serious change is needed in how domestic abuse is seen, acted upon and victims are supported. These proposed changes, coupled with the extension of legal aid for victims of domestic abuse, may help.”
“What we need to do is talk about it more. Raise awareness. End the shame on the victims.”
“It is not your fault if you become a victim of domestic abuse. You can get help.”
Today, Samantha Lee is raising awareness on International Women’s Day.
To help raise £1 million to secure refuge services in Hampshire, Samantha will be on her bike. Well, a bike at Tesco in Havant.
If you can help Samantha and Southern domestic Abuse Service, please donate:
