The House of Lords Domestic Abuse Act 2021 Committee has published a call for evidence in its inquiry considering the effective operation of the act and whether it is meeting its policy objectives.
The committee is keen to hear from a diverse range of individuals and organisations on topics including:
- The extent to which the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 has proved effective in its aims and whether there are any gaps in its provisions;
- Children as victims of domestic abuse;
- The statutory definition of domestic abuse;
- The effectiveness of local authorities, statutory bodies and multi-agency working in tackling domestic abuse, including exploring collaborative working
- Examining the effectiveness of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner
- How domestic abuse is handled by the Police and the Courts
Baroness Kennedy of the Shaws, who chairs the cross-party committee, said:
“The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 was introduced in order to address the range of behaviours that could constitute offences and be committed in various ways that are not necessarily always physical violence. This includes, but is not limited to coercive or controlling behaviour and economic abuse. It also recognised children as victims of domestic abuse where they witness it and experience the effects of abuse.
“It has now been four years since the implementation of the Act and it is clear that while it is well intentioned and was a milestone piece of legislation at the time of its passing, there are gaps in its effective implementation that need to be addressed. Most notably it seems that there are regional and ethnic disparities in enforcement and support available for victims resulting in a post-code lottery situation in relation to accessing necessary resources such as housing and shelters, to name a few.
“We want to hear about any issues encountered by those with lived experience of domestic abuse and also from agencies and organisations that are tasked with tackling this issue. We’re interested in hearing about what is working well, what could be improved and suggested solutions, especially in regard to multi-agency working and implementing best practise to ensure victims receive high quality and useful support wherever they may reside or whatever their ethnic make-up.
“We look forward to hearing from a diverse range of individuals and organisations and will aim to produce a report with practical and deliverable recommendations once the inquiry is concluded.”
Read the full call for evidence and find out how to make a submission. The deadline for submission of written evidence is 10am Monday 20 April 2026.
2 responses
The legislation is well intended. As a QLR a creation of the DAA 2021, working across England, there is much still to do to cut violence against Women and Girls. It is highlighting the complexities of vulnerability and the limitations of the court process to effect reduction and change to violence in our society. There is an issue of equality of arms and access to justice to all who are vulnerable.
I welcome the inquiry and if asked will contribute directly to thenl Committee. Real problems that require real solutions that include a mindset shift.
I used to work for a DA charity, Social Services refused to collaborate in any way shape or form, which is such a shame as multi agency working surely gives survivors a better support system, and enables more support for the whole family.