November 27th 2024.
This morning, the Office for National Statistics released new data that sheds light on the prevalence of domestic abuse in England and Wales. According to the report, a staggering 2.3 million people over the age of 16 experienced domestic abuse in the past year. Out of this number, 1.6 million were women and 712,000 were men. These shocking statistics were recorded as of March 2024.
The report also revealed that the police recorded a total of 851,062 domestic abuse crimes and 499,366 "incidents" in the last year. These crimes accounted for 15.8% of all recorded offences by the police. It is disheartening to note that a staggering 72.5% of these victims were female. However, there is a silver lining amidst these harrowing numbers - there has been a 6.6% decrease in domestic abuse-related crimes compared to the previous year.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated issue. Last year alone, over one million crimes against women and girls, including domestic abuse, rape, stalking, and revenge porn, were recorded in England and Wales. These crimes made up 20% of all reported offences. Globally, a woman or girl is killed in her own home every 11 minutes, highlighting the urgent need for action.
The Office for National Statistics also revealed that every 40 seconds, a domestic abuse offence was recorded by the police in the last year. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The Crime Survey for England and Wales data for the year ending March 2023 found that only 18.9% of women who experienced partner abuse in the last 12 months reported it to the police.
According to Refuge, a staggering 84% of domestic abuse victims are female, with 93% of perpetrators being male. Furthermore, statistics from Safe Lives show that disabled women are twice as likely to experience domestic abuse compared to non-disabled women. They also typically endure abuse for a longer period before seeking help. It is a sobering fact that, on average, it takes a woman seven attempts before she is able to leave an abusive relationship for good.
These alarming statistics come in the wake of a report by UN Women, which found that the most dangerous place for a woman is her own home. In 2023, 85,000 women and girls were killed by men, with 60% of these murders committed by someone close to the victim.
If you suspect a loved one is at risk of domestic abuse, it is crucial to handle the situation delicately and sensitively. You can gently approach them and remind them of organizations like Women's Aid and Refuge that can provide support and advice. It is essential to listen actively and refrain from judging or criticizing the abuser or victim. Instead, offer your support and believe them when they confide in you. It may take time for them to open up, but it is essential to be patient and understanding.
If your loved one is ready to leave an abusive situation, you can assist them by researching non-local taxi numbers and transportation options, as well as preparing an emergency bag with essential items. It is also helpful to have a safety plan in place and a safe word between you and your loved one to signal when they need help.
It is crucial to remember that support is available, and no one should have to endure domestic abuse alone. As UN Women's deputy executive director, Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, stated, these numbers are just the "tip of the iceberg." The fact that so many women are exposed to deadly violence in the private and domestic sphere is alarming. We must take action to address this issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals.
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