Domestic abuse and sexual offences should be treated as seriously as knife crime, says government

Domestic abuse and sexual offences should be treated as seriously as knife crime and homicide, the government has said.

MPs are currently considering changes to legislation that could require domestic abuse and sexual offences to be part of a new law meaning public bodies must legally work together to tackle serious violence.

The Home Office said the Serious Violence Duty, which is guidance for responsible authorities, “will improve wholesale understanding of the drivers of serious violence and help prevent future crime and tragedy”.

Under the law, police, government, health and education bodies would be required to share insight locally to develop a more entire strategy to protect people from harm.

The government will add the domestic abuse and sexual offences changes to the Serious Violence Duty via an amendment to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Court Bill.

The Home Office said the change is being made “following careful consideration and widespread support from campaigners”.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “Any instance of violence towards another human being is sickening and it is incumbent upon all in authority to try and prevent it from occurring.

“There are numerous public sector bodies and agencies with a responsibility to protect young and vulnerable people from harm – and they must get better at working together to deliver for them.

“That is exactly why the Serious Violence Duty is so important.

“Following tireless work on this important issue by Baroness Bertin, I am bringing forward changes to the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill to make clear that domestic abuse and sexual offences – which do untold and often long-term damage to victims – can be included in local strategies for tackling serious violence.”

Domestic Abuse Commissioner Nicole Jacobs said she was “delighted” Ms Patel had listened to campaigners.

“It sends a very clear message to victims and survivors that tackling and preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence are top priorities and not optional extras,” she said.

“This amendment will ensure there is an early intervention, public health focused approach to tackling serious violent crime.”