Following the publication of the Government’s Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy in December 2025, we have taken time to fully review and reflect on its contents. While the true measure of success will lie in its implementation – supported by consistent review, scrutiny, and accountability – we believe it is important to share our initial response.
We echo our colleagues at Women’s Aid in welcoming the overall ambition of the strategy. We are pleased to see a strong emphasis on prevention, alongside a clear commitment to the relentless pursuit of perpetrators. The proposed reforms to commissioning processes are long overdue, and we welcome opportunities to contribute to local and national discussions on how these systems can better serve victims and survivors in a holistic and trauma-informed way.
Despite this, significant gaps remain. We are especially concerned that some victims and survivors, particularly Black and minoritised women, continue to face discrimination due to the absence of adequate safeguards. In this regard, we wholeheartedly support the statement issued by Southall Black Sisters.
While we are encouraged that stalking is explicitly recognised within the strategy, we are disappointed that the Government has missed the opportunity to include all forms of men’s violence against women and girls. As highlighted by our colleagues at the Femicide Census, exploitation of women through prostitution is notably absent. Furthermore, as noted by the Femicide Census, the strategy provides insufficient focus on those with multiple and complex needs, as well as older and disabled women.
We are, however, particularly pleased to see the Government acknowledge the importance of strategic work within Armed Forces communities. When we began developing bespoke services for Armed Forces communities nine years ago, there was minimal national attention given to the unique barriers faced by victims and survivors within these settings. At that time, it felt unimaginable that a national VAWG strategy would not only recognise their needs but also confront the dynamics of power that perpetrators in these communities often exploit.
We are proud to be named in the strategy and pleased that our international Armed Forces helpline and WhatsApp service has been highlighted. Since launching our services nine years ago, our aim has been to create accessible, specialist support that responds directly to the unique experiences of victims and survivors in Armed Forces communities. We remain deeply grateful to our funders; however, it is important to note that our helpline – referenced in the strategy – is currently a two-year pilot, with funding due to end in March 2027.
Although we are committed to securing the continuation of this vital resource, it would be remiss of us not to highlight that we were not consulted during the development of the strategy. While we are proud to be included, having a seat at the table would have ensured that we highlighted that we are one of many small, specialist, independent organisations delivering innovative “by and for” services nationwide. We are pleased that our specific model with the Armed Forces has been recognised, but true recognition must be matched with long-term, sustainable funding for the specialist independent sector. Without this, services will close, and strategies, however ambitious, will fail to deliver for victims and survivors.
Dr Shonagh Dillon LLB, DCrimJ
CEO – Aurora New Dawn
