For many women and girls living with abuse, fear becomes part of everyday life.
Fear of going home. Fear of not being believed. Fear of reporting violence and being left to navigate the system alone.
This week’s proposed government strategy on violence against women and girls has given many survivors and support organisations a sense of hope that things may finally begin to change.
The plans aim to treat violence against women and girls as a national priority, with new investment in specialist support services, policing, education and prevention. For survivors, these proposals are not just political announcements — they are about safety, dignity and the possibility of being heard.
One of the most important proposals is the creation of specialist rape and sexual offences teams in every police force. Many survivors have spoken about how difficult and traumatising it can be to report abuse. Having trained specialists who understand trauma and coercive control could help women feel safer when coming forward.
The strategy also promises more funding for domestic abuse services and safe accommodation. Across the country, charities and refuges are under immense pressure, often forced to turn women away because there simply is not enough space or support available. Increased funding could mean more women and children finding safety when they need it most.
There is also a strong focus on prevention and education. Teaching young people about healthy relationships, respect and coercive behaviour could help future generations recognise abuse earlier and challenge harmful attitudes before violence escalates.
Importantly, the government is also acknowledging the growing threat of online abuse. Many women now experience harassment, intimidation and exploitation through social media and digital platforms. Proposed action against deepfake abuse and online misogyny sends a message that abuse in digital spaces must be taken seriously too.
For survivors, this strategy represents something deeply human: the hope that future victims may not have to fight so hard to be protected, believed or supported.
Domestic abuse is not only a private trauma. It affects families, children, communities and generations. Behind every statistic is a person trying to survive.
While there is still much work to do, these proposals offer hope that women and girls may finally see a system that listens earlier, responds faster and places their safety at the heart of public life.
