The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 redefined domestic violence, compelling local authorities to aid survivors.

The 2021 Act is expected to address the multifaceted issue of domestic abuse in the UK by introducing measures such as a statutory definition, the creation of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner's office, and new protection orders. With an estimated annual cost of £247 to £300 million for England and Wales, the Act emphasises prevention, victim support, and legal measures to combat the pervasive societal impact of domestic abuse.

Data surrounding domestic violence is hard to quantify, as abuse is commonly committed in the home and goes unreported to the police. According to a 2022 Crime Survey for England and Wales, approximately 1 in 5 adults aged 16 years and over (10.4 million) had experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16 years. Furthermore, responses to domestic abuse and support for victims vary significantly across the UK, being deemed a 'patchwork of provision' by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner, with "less than half of victims and survivors being able to access the community-based support that they wanted", demonstrating the challenges that currently face domestic abuse support.

Additionally, access to services is not equal for everyone. As SafeLives points out, certain groups within society face additional barriers when seeking support. Men, women from ethnic minorities, the LGBT+ community, children, the elderly, and disabled individuals continue to experience significant disadvantages and may feel invisible or overlooked by support institutions. Other factors, such as the development of digital technologies, a lack of focus on working with perpetrators, and housing issues, further challenge already overwhelmed services.

The Institute of Government & Public Policy's Fifth Annual Tackling Domestic Violence and Abuse Conference 2024 has been designed to provide a platform for discussion on the biggest challenges facing the sector, and with keynote speakers from organisations such as Refuge and Standing Together, as well as lived experience experts, the conference will leave you inspired and equipped with knowledge and connections to make a difference in your community.

Spaces are limited – enquire now to avoid disappointment!