A new report claims that support services in the criminal justice system for victims of domestic violence and rape have suffered as a result of cuts.
Former Solicitor General Vera Baird said that one-fifth of specialist refuges for victims of domestic violence have closed over the last four years – and four out of ten women who claim they have suffered domestic violence have been unable to obtain Legal Aid because of tougher new eligibility rules, such as a letter from a GP.
The report – called Placing Women’s Safety Centre Stage – says the “clock has gone back” on support for domestic violence victims. The report also claims that all women who are victims of crime have suffered as a result of cutbacks in Legal Aid – but female victims of domestic abuse have been particularly affected by cuts to the criminal justice system’s support for domestic abuse cases.
Speaking as the Labour Party launched its campaign to win votes from women in the May 2015 General Election, deputy leader Harriet Harman said that victims of domestic abuse and rape had suffered “huge cuts in support” in the criminal justice system.
Duncan Lewis Domestic Violence Solicitors
Duncan Lewis domestic violence solicitors can advise victims of domestic abuse on their rights under the law.
Duncan Lewis is also a leading firm of Legal Aid solicitors – and can advise on domestic violence under UK law as well as Islamic law.
For expert legal advice on domestic violence law, call the Duncan Lewis Domestic Violence Solicitors Helpline in confidence on 07920 077054.