By Nikki Allen
When people think about domestic abuse often the first image that comes to mind will be of one partner attacking the other. However domestic abuse takes many forms.
With statistics showing that domestic abuse is on the rise and domestic abuse being at the forefront of the media, it is finally good to see that the government is taking the appropriate steps to recognise that domestic abuse is not just physical violence.
Under the current laws Police intervention mainly concentrates on the physical aspects of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is, sadly, wider than just physical violence alone. Domestic abuse is classified by the Family Courts and the Legal Aid Agency as physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse.
It is positive to see that the Government now recognise that tougher laws are needed to cover domestic abuse. It is their plan is to unveil the introduction of a new law in which “coercive” behaviours (psychological and emotional abuse) will become illegal. The new law will provide the Police with greater powers to assist victims of domestic abuse. Should perpetrators of abuse be found guilty lengthier prison sentences will also be available to the court . Hopefully these proposed changes will enable more victims of domestic abuse to seek the help and support they need from the police.