Last month the Government has confirmed their plan to make non-fatal strangulation a specific criminal offence under the new Domestic Abuse Bill.
Studies have shown that if a victim is strangled by a partner, they are seven times more likely to be murdered by that partner.
Initially, the Government said it had no plans to change the law as non-fatal strangulation is readily covered by existing legislation such as common assault and attempted murder. However, the Government then changed tack and are now planning to make it a specific offence to intentionally strange another person, or to do any other act that affects their ability to breathe, including suffocation.
The domestic abuse commissioner for England and Wales, Nicole Jacobs called the Government’s decision a “huge win.”
Other changes brought about by the Domestic Abuse bill include that it will also no longer be a requirement for the abuser to live with the victim in order to commit coercive or controlling behaviour. The legislation is also being expanded regarding revenge porn, which shall include threats to disclose intimate images with the intention to cause distress.
If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse, please contact Ramsdens Solicitors. We work closely with domestic abuse services and can provide help and assistance for your safety and security. In an emergency, please always call 999.
Other helpline resources include the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline which you can call on 0808 2000 247 or the Men’s advice line on 0808 801 032.
If you would like to speak with a member of our Family team in confidence, please call 08000 147720 or send us an email to book a free information session via telephone.