Ahead of the election, the charity has also announced the Women’s Aid General Election Manifesto, calling for the prioritisation of domestic abuse support and for political parties to pledge their support to help put an end to violence against women and girls. The manifesto sets out three key pillars:

Invest to save: Invest £427 million yearly to fund specialist women-led and ‘by and for’ domestic abuse services in England. This includes requiring local authorities to adhere to national commissioning guidelines and monitoring delivery of support on a national scale.
Support survivors: Deliver the right response the first time so women receive the correct support. This includes recommendations for young people, housing, health, employment, welfare, courts, immigration and perpetrator intervention.
Prevent abuse: Transform societal attitudes and understanding of domestic abuse. This includes recommendations for specialist training and for school programmes on violence against women and girls.

The manifesto has been endorsed by those who work in the domestic abuse sector, campaigners and celebrities alike. Commenting on its release, Melanie Brown MBE said: “On behalf of the survivors whose voices can’t be heard, I am here with my voice and my platform, loudly telling every political party that they need to put domestic abuse as a priority as we lead up to the next general election. Domestic abuse isn’t like other issues – so many people are affected but can’t safely speak out – it is everywhere and I’m telling you today lives are at risk, and women in particular need you. No matter which political party you are in, I’m asking you for your commitment today that domestic abuse is an issue you will prioritise.”

In the UK, the domestic violence helpline is 0808 2000 247. Alternatively, contact Women’s Aid, Solace or Refuge for advice and support.

Women’s Aid calls on the future government to invest in long-term domestic abuse funding