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Coercive control – is the justice system serving victims?

Family abuse – man’s hands keeping woman’s shoulders, gray background

It’s been reported that a young mother from Lancashire took her own life after two years of physical and emotional abuse from her partner. This raises the question again – are we doing enough to combat domestic abuse?

Louise Barwood gives her view.

What happened?

Kiera Dawes endured years of physical and emotional abuse perpetrated by Ryan Wellings, who was 30 at the time. Kiera had reported the abuse to the police, with such abuse she suffered including being knocked out and regularly slapped. Wellings also emotionally abused the young mum by threatening to drill her teeth out or throw acid into her face alongside humiliating and verbally abusing her.

The young mother, it is reported, left a message on her phone stating that Wellings had “killed me” on the day she took her life. Seemingly, Kiera could not stand the abuse any longer and felt the police were not protecting her enough, even after her reports.

Wellings was found guilty of assault and prolonged domestic abuse but was cleared of manslaughter.

Meanwhile, one Lancashire Police officer faces disciplinary charges for alleged misconduct. Two others are accused of misconduct in connection with contact the victim had with police before her death.

Coercive control in the spotlight

Coercive control has come to light more in more recent years, especially with the introduction of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. Non-physical abuse such as coercive control can be just as, if not more devastating than physical violence towards a victim.

Coercive control emphasises the core of abuse which is where a perpetrator needs to feel powerful and have control over the other person, to include numerous types of non-physical abuse. This non-physical abuse could include financial control, control of friendships/family relationships, clothing choices and more. Section 68 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 covers the controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship.

Let down by the authorities

It is a benefit to victims that coercive and controlling abuse is now recognised within English law and allows for victims to seek for justice and help. In Kiera’s case mentioned above, she was let down by the police services at the time, who did not action an attack by Wellings on Kiera only two weeks before she died.

I welcome the news that an investigation into the conduct of the police involved is taking place, and I am hopeful that lessons will be learnt by both police and the justice system to help prevent this type of incident from happening.

Spotting signs of coercive control

Spotting signs of coercive control can be difficult, but if you feel that your partner or family member is trying to control your choices, finances or anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, it is always best to reach out to support services.

Domestic abuse services are the best places to go to have confidential, relaxed conversations and to seek support. Support can be provided in numerous ways, such as help leaving the relationship, refer you for legal advice, providing comfort and a listening ear.

If you believe that yourself or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, whether that be physical or coercive, reach out. There is lots of support available for you.

 

Useful links –

BBC News story on the case (latest at time of publishing blog) https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0jn81y7j14o

 

Detailed information on the Domestic Abuse Act 2021

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/17/contents

 

How can Morecrofts help you?

https://www.morecrofts.co.uk/service/domestic-abuse-solicitors/

 

Support signposting for people suffering domestic abuse

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/