Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women and girls (VAWG) accounted for 20% of total police recorded crime in England and Wales between 2022 and 2023. A further report commissioned by the National Police Chief’s Council and the College of Policing estimated at least one in every twelve women will be a victim of VAWG. The threat to women and girls is becoming an epidemic.
VAWG includes domestic abuse, sexual abuse, stalking and harassment with the average age of a victim being just 13 years of age.
Therefore, if you are experiencing VAWG or any form of abuse, it is imperative that you report this to the police and seek specialist legal advice concerning protective measures which may be available.
The Family Law Act 1996.
Under The Family Law Act 1996, a victim of any form of abuse may apply for a Non-Molestation Order and/or an Occupation Order. Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders are a crucial part of family law, providing protection for individuals and their children who are experiencing harm or are at risk of harm. They are especially helpful for protecting victims of domestic abuse.
A Non-Molestation Order prevents an individual from pestering, harassing, and molesting another. Although there is no strict definition of molesting, it includes harassment, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, coercive control, or any threats of abuse.
Non-Molestation Orders are not just made against any former or current partners, but any associated person. This includes family members and people who you may live with or used to live with. Importantly, a breach of a Non-Molestation Order is punishable by a criminal offence and contempt of court.
An Occupation Order regulates the occupation of the home including restricting access to the home. An Occupation Order can force, prohibit, suspend or restrict the right to occupy the property and its surrounding area. Although this does not come with an automatic power of arrest, a power of arrest can be attached to an Occupation Order as an extra form of protection.
If you are experiencing any form of domestic abuse, not just VAWG, there are many charities and associations dedicated to assisting those experiencing domestic abuse. It is important that anyone experiencing domestic abuse reaches out for support and guidance. The following charities offer support services in the South West:
FearFree – Local Support for Domestic Abuse
Somerset – Paragon Team – SIDAS – Domestic abuse services
Home – Women’s Aid (womensaid.org.uk)
Therefore, if you are experiencing any form of abuse and would like to speak to one of our specialist family lawyers, please ring us on 0800 8840 640 or email us at [email protected].
At Everys, we have specialist lawyers who can advise and assist you on the merit of an application for the above order(s) in a swift and sensitive manner to ensure you are protected from any further harm.
