Adam Dance MP calls for stronger protections for victims during Domestic Abuse Awareness Month

As part of Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, Yeovil MP Adam Dance has called for stronger support and protection for victims of domestic abuse, following a Government response to his Parliamentary Question on the Sentencing Bill.

In his question to the Secretary of State for Justice, Adam asked what assessment had been made of the potential impact of the Bill’s provisions on victims of domestic abuse.

Responding, Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones MP said the Bill would introduce a new judicial finding of domestic abuse at sentencing, helping to ensure that offenders are better identified and monitored throughout the system. She also said the Bill would allow judges greater discretion to impose immediate custody in cases involving significant risk of harm, including in domestic abuse cases.

While welcoming parts of the response, Adam stressed that legislation alone is not enough and called for a greater focus on prevention, support services, and early intervention to protect victims and survivors.

Adam Dance MP said:

“Any step that helps identify domestic abuse earlier and hold perpetrators accountable is welcome — but laws on paper must translate into real change for victims.

“Too many survivors still struggle to access the support, safety and justice they deserve. As we mark Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, we must remember that behind every statistic is a person whose life has been shattered by abuse.

“The Government must go further — ensuring sustainable funding for refuges, specialist support services, and early intervention programmes to stop abuse before it starts. We also need to see stronger action to protect victims when offenders are released back into the community.”

The Liberal Democrats are calling for better cross-agency coordination between the justice system, health services, and local authorities, as well as a long-term funding settlement for domestic abuse services to end the postcode lottery of support across the UK.

Adam added:

“Protecting victims and giving them a voice in the justice system should never be optional — it should be at the heart of Government policy. Every survivor deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to rebuild their life.”