National Audit Office reports increasing violence against women

A recent report by the National Audit Office (NAO) has highlighted the ongoing crisis of violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the UK, stating that government efforts have not led to improved outcomes for victims. The NAO describes VAWG as a 'significant and growing problem,' with one in 12 women expected to experience some form of gender-based violence annually. Despite pledges by the Labour government to halve VAWG in the next decade, the Home Office has struggled to implement an effective cross-government response, with oversight groups meeting infrequently since the launch of the 2021 strategy. The report reveals that in 2022/23, over one million violent crimes against women and girls were recorded, accounting for nearly 20% of all police-recorded crime in England and Wales. Public Accounts Committee chairman Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown criticized the Home Office for lacking clarity on funding and effectiveness, calling for a more coordinated approach. Victims like Louise have expressed disappointment at the stagnation in progress, urging for victim-led solutions rather than more reports without action.