NFWI response to the widening of the definition of domestic violence

The amendments to the Home Office definition of domestic violence are a welcome step in the right direction.  By making this change, the Home Office is rightly acknowledging that domestic violence is a complex and often invisible crime, yet there remains much to be done to ensure safety and security for victims and their children.  

We know that proper training and support for frontline services are key factors in helping professionals that respond to domestic violence.  Without ensuring that this is in place, expanding the definition of domestic violence will, in reality, have little impact for victims.  

This is especially concerning at a time when we know that many specialist local domestic abuse support services are facing real pressures on funding and the NFWI remains concerned about the Government’s efforts to restrict the eligibility criteria for accessing legal aid.