Refuge comment on British Crime Survey

British Crime Survey

Sandra Horley OBE, Chief Exeutive of Refuge:

“The fact that 28% of women have experienced partner abuse should be a wake up call to the Government.  The latest results from the British Crime Survey (BCS) illustrate that domestic violence continues at an alarming rate.  The fact that 61% of female homicide victims are killed by their partner or ex partner is absolutely shocking. 

“Whatever the challenges, the Government and the Criminal Justice System must not shrink from their responsibility to protect women and children by holding violent men accountable for these atrocious crimes.We need to see proof of rigourous arresting and charging, proof that conviction rates are increasing.  There is an urgent need for the Government to implement an integrated national strategy, across all levels, with realistic and adequate funding to match.  Until this is in place the Government is only paying lip service to the fact that domestic violence is a crime. 

“We believe that domestic violence will continue until society refuses to tolerate it any and it becomes as unacceptable as drink driving. How many more women must die before we say enough is enough? Women and children have the right to live without violence or the fear of violence.”

For more information please visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/pdfs07/hosb0207.pdf