Incidents of domestic abuse in the UK are changing – Here’s what it means for families
Domestic abuse is an issue that sadly continues to affect millions of people across the UK.
Recent changes in how domestic abuse is officially defined and measured have led to a clearer, albeit troubling, understanding of just how widespread this problem is.
According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than 12 million adults in England and Wales have experienced domestic abuse from family members or partners since the age of 16, up significantly from previous estimates.
This increase isn’t because domestic abuse itself is necessarily rising, but rather because its statistical criteria now better recognise and measure different forms of abuse, including emotional, economic, and coercive control.
The ONS has recently expanded its crime survey to include new questions specifically designed to capture controlling behaviours.
These behaviours include threats of self-harm if a partner doesn’t comply, manipulating friends to question the victim’s mental state, or threatening to expose personal and sensitive information.
Notably, 18 per cent of adults reported experiencing emotional abuse, with economic abuse also prevalent, affecting 12 per cent of the population.
Domestic violence has profound and lasting impacts, severely affecting mental health, financial independence, and personal safety.
It damages confidence and isolates individuals, making it incredibly challenging for victims to seek support or leave harmful situations.
Understanding these complex forms of abuse is crucial for providing effective help and ensuring legal protections are accessible.
Family law has evolved significantly alongside our deeper understanding of domestic abuse.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021, building on earlier legislation like the criminalisation of coercive control in 2015, explicitly recognised economic abuse, giving victims clearer pathways to legal recourse and protection.
For those experiencing domestic violence, family law provides crucial interventions, including protective injunctions, such as Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders.
These orders aim to safeguard victims and their children by prohibiting abusers from engaging in further abusive behaviour or forcing abusers to leave shared homes.
Victims also find essential support through family courts when navigating divorce or child custody cases, particularly where domestic violence has occurred.
Courts recognise the harm caused by abusive relationships and prioritise the safety and welfare of children when making decisions.
As we continue to improve our understanding of domestic abuse, it’s more important than ever to ensure robust legal support is available.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence it is important that they seek help, initially from the police and/or other safeguarding institutions, but also from an independent legal advisor from a qualified family solicitor.
Early intervention can make all the difference in securing protection and peace of mind.
At Attwaters Jameson Hill, we remain committed to supporting individuals affected by domestic abuse and ensuring their rights and safety are fiercely protected. If you would like to speak to our team, please get in touch.
