Statement on the Independent Sentencing Review
We recognise the pressure on our criminal justice system—but it cannot come at the cost of survivors’ safety.
News and views
In this library you will find our latest press releases, statements and blogs. Please contact us for expert interview, comment, analysis and data. We have a wealth of experience speaking on television and radio, advising documentary makers, and speaking at national conferences and events.
Featured news
Domestic abuse is a national crisis – when will it be treated like one?
Domestic abuse is a national emergency: new data and a parliamentary report expose the scale of abuse and gaps in the response. This blog sets out what must happen next — and why survivors cannot afford to wait.
Statement in response to new guidance on Idvas and Isvas
Our response to new Ministry of Justice guidance on Idvas and Isvas, welcoming progress but calling for stronger protections and consistency.
Domestic abuse and mental health: a GP’s perspective
Dr Katherine Pitt, a GP Registrar and researcher, shares her professional experiences of how domestic abuse impacts upon mental health.
Responding to women’s mental health needs
Discover influential practice from NHS Camden and Islington. Shirley McNicholas explains Women's Strategy group and monitoring standards for women in all services.
Young people, domestic abuse and mental health
One in five children have been exposed to domestic abuse. SafeLives estimates that around 130,000 children in the UK live in households with high-risk domestic abuse; that is, where there is a significant risk of harm or death
Response to Home Affairs Select Committee report October 18
We welcome the recommendations of the Home Affairs Select Committee but would like to see more on the importance of a strong response to the person causing harm – the perpetrator.
Response to proposed changes to the Gender Recognition Act
Read SafeLives’ full response to Gender Recognition Act consultation.
Domestic abuse: How can Community Mental Health Nurses respond
Women who have experienced domestic violence and abuse generally have poorer health than other women. Health issues include chronic problems with digestion, kidney and bladder function and headaches, poorer pregnancy outcomes, lower birthweight babies, eating disorders and substance misuse.
Collaboration between Idvas and Community Psychiatric Nurses
Vickie Crompton on the case for collaboration between Idvas and community psychiatric nurses. Read the learning from innovative practice in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
A view from the frontline: the role of the Mental Health Idva
Find out about the creation and intricacies of the Mental Health Idva role, from conception to referrals to interventions. Guest blog from Amber Canham.
250 girls born today in the UK today will grow up to have an abusive partner
250 girls born in the UK today will grow up to have an abusive partner. SafeLives calls for a radical rethink in the response to preventing domestic abuse.
Tips for mental health professionals working with survivors of domestic abuse
Understanding the link between domestic abuse and mental health: Insights from a mental health coordinator. Practical tips for professionals from Standing Together.
Why mental health support for survivors of domestic abuse is so vital
World Mental Health Day and the start of our series, Donna describes why responding to the mental health needs of survivors of domestic abuse is essential, and outlines the progress being made within the domestic abuse sector.
Why we’re shining a spotlight on LGBT+ survivors of domestic abuse
In all our work we are guided by the evidence: research and data, practice expertise from those working to support survivors, and most importantly the lived experience of survivors and their loved ones. All this evidence tells us that there is no ‘typical’ victim – or perpetrator – of domestic abuse