Violence against women and girls
The horrific murder of Sarah Everard brought national attention to the issue of women’s safety, which was further exacerbated by the police’s heavy-handed response to the peaceful vigil at Clapham Common.
community safety
Countering extremism
The past months have, of course, been dominated by our collective efforts in response to COVID-19.
New funding to tackle drugs crime
An extra £80 million is to be invested in drug treatment services across England to give more support to offenders with drink and drug addictions, as part of an overall £148 million package to cut crime and protect people from the menace of illegal drugs.
Funding for new domestic abuse duties
Councils are to receive £6 million in government funding to help prepare for the introduction of the Domestic Abuse Bill, which from April 2021 will place a duty on councils to support victims of domestic abuse.
Speaking up for victims of domestic abuse
With so many of us confined to our homes during the coronavirus pandemic, domestic abuse helplines have, alarmingly, reported a significant increase in cases of domestic violence.
Always in lockdown
Being confined to our homes during the COVID-19 pandemic has been very difficult for all of us. We are bored, worried, and want to return to our normal life quickly. Hopefully, after a few more weeks, we will be able to do so.
Improving the response to domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is a devastating crime and an issue to which I have dedicated my whole professional life.
‘No knife shop’ pledge
Retailers, including online businesses, need to stop selling knives by default to help tackle the knife-crime epidemic, the LGA has said.
Councils warn of rise in coronavirus-related scams
Self-isolating older and vulnerable residents are at risk of being exploited by strangers and cold callers posing as helpful neighbours in order to scam them, councils up and down the country have been warning.
Disrupting modern slavery
The LGA has published new guidance on how to spot and tackle modern slavery in hand car washes and privately rented housing.