Refuge calls for VAWG sector to be exempt from National Insurance hikes

Refuge calls for VAWG sector to be exempt from National Insurance hikes during 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence 

Following the announcement of National Insurance contribution rises for employers in last month’s budget, the country’s largest specialist domestic abuse service provider Refuge is urging the Government to exempt charities so the sector can continue its vital work in tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG). 

The call comes during16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an annual international campaign led by the UN, which launches today (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women), and will be running until Human Rights Day on the 10 December. Refuge is standing with the UN’s call to end the epidemic of VAWG.  

The VAWG sector is experiencing chronic underfunding, leaving many lifesaving services at breaking point. To prevent further pressure on the sector, Refuge is calling for charities to be exempt from National Insurance contribution rises for employers so that we can continue to support survivors and tackle VAWG all year round.  

Responding to the Government’s plans to increase National Insurance contributions for employers, Abigail Ampofo, interim CEO of Refuge, said:  

“The VAWG sector is already under immense financial pressure. Not only did last month’s budget fail to include detail about how much funding has been set aside to tackle violence against women and girls, the Government’s plans to increase National Insurance contributions for employers could have dire repercussions for charities. 

“As 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence commences, we are aware of the disparity between awareness and tangible action from the Government to tackle VAWG. We welcomed the Government’s pledge to halve VAWG within the next decade, but have been clear that this mission cannot be delivered without reversing the chronic underfunding that has been hindering the sector for years.  

“VAWG services provide lifesaving support to thousands of women and girls every year, but many are at breaking point. Refuge has made clear to the Government that the epidemic of male violence against women and girls will not cease until we see long-term, dedicated funding for support services. Our mission to support as many survivors as possible will not end until we live in a world where domestic abuse and VAWG is not tolerated. The Government must play its part in helping us achieve this.”