The UK Home Office has unveiled new measures aimed at protecting victims of violence against women and girls.
In a bold move to address the growing epidemic of domestic abuse, the announcement, made on Friday, September 20, marks a critical step in the government’s commitment to halve such violence within the next decade.
As part of this initiative, specialists in domestic abuse will be embedded in emergency call centres, ensuring that victims receive the urgent support they deserve.
A statement from the UK Home Office website, titled, “New measures set out to combat violence against women and girls,” disclosed this.
Who is Raneem Oudeh?
According to the statement, the heart-wrenching story of Raneem Oudeh, who was murdered by her ex-husband in 2018 despite multiple calls for help, has driven these reforms.
Over 13 warnings had been made to the police regarding Raneem’s safety before her tragic death. On that fateful night, she dialled 999 four times, but the system failed to protect her.
Now, in her memory and that of her mother, Khaola Saleem, the government is implementing what is being called ‘Raneem’s Law’.
Under this new law, domestic abuse specialists will be stationed in 999 control rooms to ensure that emergency calls are prioritised and handled with the seriousness they demand.
Home Secretary reacts
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasised the importance of immediate, expert responses, stating, “Victims of appalling domestic abuse need to know that the police will be there for them.”
She called today’s measures a vital part of a broader mission to combat violence against women and girls.
“This initiative is set to be piloted in selected police forces starting early 2025. With nearly 100 domestic abuse-related offences recorded every hour last year, the need for effective intervention has never been more urgent.
“The government plans to leverage advanced technology, including rapid video responses, to enhance police efficiency in handling these cases,” she added.
Introduction of Raneem’s Law
Meanwhile, the lead campaigner and aunt of Raneem, Nour Norris, expressed her deep gratitude for the progress being made.
“Their suffering and the way the system failed them is something I will never forget,” she reflected, recalling the pain of losing her family members.
“Raneem’s Law will ensure that domestic abuse specialists are present in 999 control rooms so victims’ calls for help are taken seriously,” Norris stated.
She believes this law will change lives and prevent future tragedies by ensuring that warning signs are not overlooked.
In addition to embedding specialists in call centres, the government is launching a new domestic abuse protection order pilot that aims to strengthen measures against perpetrators.
From November, these orders will mandate that domestic abusers stay away from their victims, with tougher penalties for violations, including up to five years in prison.
This initiative will expand the types of agencies that can apply for these orders, allowing local authorities, charities, and even the victims themselves to seek protection.
Govt officials react
Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls Jess Phillips stated, “For too long, we know victims haven’t had the protection they deserve.”
She praised the measures as a significant step forward in ensuring that victims receive the support and protection they need.
Similarly, Phillips underscored the importance of working closely with those affected by domestic abuse to shape policies that truly make a difference.
The introduction of these protective orders is particularly significant given that existing protections only last for 28 days.
The new orders will not have a maximum duration and will encompass all forms of domestic abuse, including physical violence, stalking, and coercive behaviour.
This comprehensive approach aims to create a robust framework for victim protection, noted the statement.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner reacts
Domestic Abuse Commissioner Nicole Jacobs welcomed these developments, highlighting the alarming frequency of domestic abuse calls to the police—estimated at one every 30 seconds.
“Emergency call handlers must be equipped to respond with the understanding and urgency needed to keep victims safe,” she said, reinforcing the necessity for trained professionals in control rooms,” Jacobs asserted.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Domestic Abuse, Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe, echoed these sentiments, calling for a systemic approach to the issue.
“Domestic abuse is a complex and entrenched societal problem that can inflict life-long harm,” she stated.
Rolfe emphasised the importance of collaboration between government and law enforcement to safeguard victims effectively.
Reclaiming public safety
Noting further, the statement explained that the overarching goal of these initiatives is part of the UK government’s Safer Streets Mission, which aims to reclaim public spaces and restore trust in the police and justice system.
The government is committed to utilising every available tool to tackle the root causes of violence and to provide educational programmes that teach children about respect and healthy relationships.
In summary, the new measures announced today represent a decisive effort to protect victims of domestic abuse and to hold perpetrators accountable.
As the UK embarks on this ambitious journey to eradicate violence against women and girls, advocates and officials alike are hopeful that these changes will lead to tangible improvements in the lives of countless individuals, ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence again. (PUNCH)
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