More than 50 organizations dedicated to eradicating violence against women are seeking clarification on how the Government plans to fulfill its campaign commitments.
Concerns have been raised by experts over the delayed release of a strategy to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG), more than a year after the Labour Party assumed power. Keir Starmer, upon entering office in July last year, pledged to reduce VAWG by half within ten years.
Activists have expressed dismay over a funding shortage for support services and a growing trend of blaming migrants. Andrea Simon, Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW), criticized political leaders for diverting attention from the root causes of abuse by unfairly blaming migrants.
The organizations are urging political leaders to focus on addressing the funding crisis for critical support services and investing in efforts to prevent violence. They emphasize the need for a public health approach in the forthcoming VAWG strategy, including educational initiatives and awareness campaigns to shift societal behaviors.
Additionally, the groups are calling for a comprehensive government response to the VAWG crisis, highlighting the necessity of funding specialized services to prevent refuges from turning away victims of domestic abuse. They advocate for dedicated funding for marginalized communities and stress the importance of every government department playing a role in combating VAWG.
Leaders emphasize the importance of an inclusive strategy that acknowledges the diverse needs of all women and girls, without discrimination. They underscore the disproportionate levels of violence experienced by Black and minority ethnic, migrant, disabled, and LGBT+ survivors, and stress the need for equitable access to support and justice.
Ciara Bergman, CEO of Rape Crisis England & Wales, emphasizes the critical role of services like Rape Crisis Centers in supporting survivors and facilitating their recovery. Similarly, Ghadah Alnasseri, executive director of Imkaan, stresses the vital support that specialist organizations provide to marginalized groups, urging the government to prioritize an inclusive and comprehensive approach.
The Home Office has assured that a cross-government strategy is being finalized to combat VAWG, with a focus on pursuing offenders, supporting victims, and preventing future crimes. The strategy is expected to be published soon, as the government works collaboratively across departments to address this pressing issue.