Addressing the epidemic of violence against women and girls

The scale of violence against women and girls (VAWG) in England and Wales has reached epidemic proportions. As a therapist, I see the devastating impact this has on individuals and society. 

Recent data from the National Policing Statement for VAWG, commissioned by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), highlights the alarming extent of this issue. This report reveals that over one million VAWG-related crimes were recorded during 2022/23, accounting for 20% of all police-recorded crimes, with a 37% increase in such crimes between 2018 and 2023.

Understanding the epidemic

The statistics are staggering and paint a grim picture of the current state of violence against women and girls:

• Over 3,000 crimes are recorded each day.
• One in every 12 women will be a victim each year, with actual numbers likely much higher due to underreporting.
• Child sexual abuse and exploitation have increased by more than 400% between 2013 and 2022.
• One in every six murders is related to domestic abuse and suspected victim suicides following domestic abuse are rising annually.

These figures underscore not only the prevalence of violence against women and girls but also the evolving and increasingly complex nature of such offences. The psychological, physical and social ramifications are profound, impacting victims and their communities deeply.

Societal factors contributing to the epidemic

To understand how we have allowed this epidemic to escalate, we must examine societal factors:

• Cultural norms and attitudes: Persistent gender stereotypes and societal norms that condone or trivialise violence against women contribute significantly to the perpetuation of VAWG.
• Lack of education and awareness: There is a critical need for comprehensive education about consent, healthy relationships and respect for women. Many men are not adequately educated about these issues, leading to harmful behaviours.
• Ineffective legal and social systems: Despite improvements in policing, many legal and social systems fail to provide adequate protection and support for victims. This includes insufficient resources for shelters, counselling services and legal aid.
• Media influence: The media often portrays women in ways that reinforce harmful stereotypes and sensationalise violence against women, which can normalise such behaviour.

What can we do?

Addressing this epidemic requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, societal change and enhanced support systems.

Education for men

• Early intervention: Implementing educational programs in schools that teach boys about consent, respect and healthy relationships from a young age.
• Community outreach: Engaging men and boys in discussions about masculinity and the impact of VAWG, encouraging them to become allies in preventing violence.

Protecting women

• Strengthening support services: Providing more resources for shelters, counselling and legal support for victims.
• Empowering women: Programmes that focus on empowerment, self-defence and economic independence, can help reduce vulnerability to violence.

Legal and policy reforms

• Stricter enforcement: Ensuring that laws are strictly enforced and that perpetrators are held accountable.
• Policy integration: Developing policies that integrate responses from criminal justice, health and social services to provide comprehensive support for victims.

Societal and cultural change

• Media responsibility: Promoting responsible media portrayals of women and raising awareness about the impact of VAWG.
• Community programmes: Initiatives that engage community leaders and organisations in combating violence and supporting victims.

The role of counselling

Counselling plays a crucial role in addressing the psychological impact of VAWG and supporting victims in their recovery:

• Emotional support: Providing a safe space for victims to express their feelings and experiences without judgment.
• Trauma-informed care: Implementing therapeutic approaches that recognise the impact of trauma and focus on healing and empowerment.
• Building resilience: Helping victims develop coping strategies and resilience to rebuild their lives and regain their sense of self-worth.
• Advocacy and guidance: Assisting victims in navigating legal and social services, ensuring they receive the support they need.

The epidemic of violence against women and girls demands urgent and sustained action. As the data from the National Policing Statement for VAWG shows, the issue is pervasive and complex, requiring a whole-system approach to effectively combat it. Criminal justice partners, government bodies, industries and communities must work together to reduce the scale and impact.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, seek help from a trusted therapist or support organisation. 

Together, we can change the tide and create a safer, more equitable society for all.