This Lords Library briefing examines the issue of domestic violence and abuse in the United Kingdom.
Domestic Violence and Abuse in the UK (83KB PDF)
The Crime Survey for England and Wales 2013/14 revealed that approximately 28.3 percent of women and 14.7 percent of men in England and Wales have experienced some form of domestic abuse since the age of 16, which is the equivalent of an estimated 4.9 million female and 2.7 million male victims. Further, a report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary has revealed that since 2013, the number of recorded cases of domestic violence and abuse in England and Wales has increased by 31 percent (from 269,700 to 353,100). This In Focus note provides further statistical breakdowns of domestic violence and abuse in the United Kingdom, and highlights some of the recent policies and legislation aimed at addressing the issue.
Domestic Violence and Abuse in the UK (83KB PDF)
The UK is required to contribute towards the prevention of atrocity crimes globally. Successive UK governments have used various mechanisms aimed at preventing mass atrocities. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised in recent years regarding the continued occurrence of large-scale violence worldwide. This has prompted some parliamentarians and external stakeholders to call on the government to do more to prevent such atrocities.
The level of abuse and intimidation aimed at those seeking or holding elected office in local government has been increasing. The Local Government Association has found that almost three-quarters of local councillors in England report feeling personally at risk when fulfilling their role. The government has called such abuse and intimidation unacceptable and is pursuing a range of measures in response, including via the Representation of the People Bill.
This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about home affairs.
