The Growing Epidemic of Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women and girls has reached alarming levels in the UK, with recent reports underscoring the severity of the crisis. According to the latest findings from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and UN Women, at least 51,000 women and girls were intentionally killed worldwide in 2023. While improved data collection may explain some of the rise from 48,800 victims in 2022, the persistence of gender-based violence is undeniable.
In the UK, the statistics paint a grim picture. An estimated one in 12 women in England and Wales will experience violence each year, amounting to roughly two million victims. Between 2018 and 2023, violent crimes against women and girls increased by 37%, with over one million incidents recorded in England and Wales in 2023 alone. These figures represent 20% of all documented crimes, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.
Stalking and Harassment: Strengthening Protections for Victims
One of the most pressing concerns in the fight against gender-based violence is the issue of stalking and harassment. A significant proportion of women in the UK have experienced stalking, with one in seven individuals aged 16 and over reporting incidents at some point in their lives. Despite this prevalence, systemic failures have left many victims unprotected and vulnerable.
In response, the UK government has announced stronger measures aimed at safeguarding victims. New policies will grant victims the right to learn the identity of their online stalkers, addressing the increasing threat of cyberstalking. Additionally, Stalking Protection Orders—legal tools that prohibit perpetrators from contacting their victims—will become more widely accessible. These measures represent a critical step forward, but their success depends on proper implementation and enforcement.
Police Failures and Institutional Reform
A July 2023 report by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and the College of Policing revealed systemic failures in how law enforcement agencies respond to violence against women and girls. The report described violence against women and girls as having reached “epidemic” levels, with Deputy Chief Constable Maggie Blyth declaring the situation a “national emergency.”
Among the most concerning revelations was the failure of police forces to adequately investigate stalking and domestic abuse cases. Many victims report being ignored or dismissed, while perpetrators face little to no accountability. Domestic abuse remains one of the highest demands on police resources, yet inadequate training and a lack of specialist units have led to substandard responses.
To combat these deficiencies, the NPCC has pledged to establish a central hub to provide specialist knowledge and training for officers. This initiative aims to equip law enforcement with the necessary expertise to handle these cases sensitively and effectively. Additionally, the government has committed to increasing funding for victim support services, ensuring survivors have access to the help they need.
Addressing the Root Causes: Education and Awareness
While law enforcement reforms are crucial, tackling violence against women and girls requires a broader societal shift. Public awareness campaigns are essential in dismantling the stigma surrounding abuse and encouraging victims to seek support. Education programs should be implemented in schools to teach young people about consent, healthy relationships, and the dangers of coercive control.
Community-led initiatives also play a pivotal role in prevention. Non-profit organizations and local authorities are expanding their services to provide comprehensive support, including safe housing, legal aid, and mental health services. These efforts ensure that survivors receive holistic care tailored to their needs.
Leveraging Technology for Victim Protection
Innovative technology is emerging as a powerful tool in safeguarding potential victims. Mobile applications and online platforms now enable individuals to discreetly seek help, report abuse, and access vital resources. Emergency response features, such as the “55” silent call system for domestic violence victims, allow individuals to signal distress without speaking, providing a crucial lifeline in dangerous situations.
Furthermore, AI-driven monitoring systems can identify patterns of online abuse and alert authorities to potential threats. Implementing these technologies on a wider scale could significantly enhance protective measures for women and girls at risk.
Top 5 Reasons To Travel with SafeKab – Keep Yourself Safe
- Empowered Travel
The app empowers passengers to choose their preferred car and driver. The app offers complete transparency, ensuring you are in control of your journey. - Safety Code
Before starting your journey, you’ll get a unique code to match your driver’s code, enhancing safety and confidence. - Journey Monitoring
Stay connected with loved ones during your travels. Share your journey information and location in real time, providing peace of mind to your friends and family. - Panic Button
In case of emergencies, the app has a panic button that notifies both the local office and designated contacts, ensuring your safety during the journey. - Cashless Travel
Top up your in-app SafeKab wallet, and never have to take out your purse or wallet to pay. This way, you can always make sure you have money for the taxi home, and you don’t need to carry any cash!
Use SafeWalk
Staying Safe While Walking Home
SafeKab’s ‘SafeWalk’ feature allows you to share your walking route with a trusted contact. This feature is perfect for those late-night walks home, ensuring you are never alone.
Real-Time Route Sharing
Your designated contact can track your journey in real-time, ensuring you reach your destination safely. This feature adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Policy Commitments and the Road Ahead
The UK government has outlined a series of commitments to tackle violence against women and girls, including:
- Increased funding for victim support services and community-based prevention programs.
- Deployment of specialist domestic abuse workers in emergency services control rooms.
- Establishment of dedicated rape investigation units within every police force across England and Wales.
- Stricter enforcement of Stalking Protection Orders and expanded legal measures against cyberstalking.
While these initiatives represent progress, their effectiveness hinges on sustained political will and comprehensive implementation. The government must ensure that all law enforcement agencies receive the necessary training and resources to carry out these policies effectively.
