New figures show a decrease in the number of harassment cases being prosecuted; a cause for concern for those who support victims of domestic abuse.
Despite a 13% increase in cases of harassment being reported to the Police in 2012/13, the number of harassment prosecutions has actually fallen by 9% over the same period: 54,500 harassment cases were reported to Police and 8,600 led to a prosecution, with an estimated 60% of these cases relating to domestic abuse.
The figures were released following a parliamentary question to the Attorney General, Dominic Grieve, from Shadow Attorney General, Emily Thornberry MP and reported by The Independent.
The trend of rising complaints versus falling prosecutions could be cause for concern, says domestic abuse legal specialist, Victoria Gethin, a partner at Stephensons Solicitors LLP in Manchester.
Victoria said: “These latest figures certainly accord with our experience in that we’re advising more people in relation to seeking an injunction. We work with the Police and other domestic abuse agencies to provide support to people who are being harassed often by ex-partners. It’s concerning that there’s been a decrease in prosecutions.”
In response to the statistics, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has said the reduction in prosecutions is likely to have been affected by the new stalking legislation, implemented in 2012.
The Government reports to have implemented a range of initiatives to help victims of domestic abuse, including the roll out of Clare’s Law in 2013, the introduction of domestic violence protection orders and funding of almost £40 million for specialist local support services and national helplines to support people in abusive situations.
Many domestic abuse specialist services however express grave concern about cuts to - and gaps in - such services, to the extent they’re reaching breaking point.
Victoria added: “We work in partnership with local support services to help victims gain access to urgent legal advice. It’s an on-going focus and it’s clear from the latest harassment statistics that there is much more to be achieved.”
Stephensons has a dedicated team of solicitors who are able to help victims of domestic abuse and their children to get the protection they need from their partners, ex partners or other family members. This protection can be put in place urgently and without the other person knowing if necessary. The firm also has a 24-hour helpline on 0333 344 4774.
ENDS
Media information: Lianne Tracey and Chloe Kendall
Stephensons Solicitors LLP
Tel: 01616 966 229
Email: lct@stephensons.co.uk or cke@stephensons.co.uk