Research Shows Survivors of Coercive Control Are Criminalized in England

An urgent call for reform as criminalised survivors struggle under a flawed system.

Criminalization of Survivors of Coercive Control in England Must End

Research from the Centre for Women’s Justice shows that women in England who suffer from coercive control are being criminalized instead of helped. The report highlights the stories of seven women, like Cara and Jane, who faced serious legal consequences due to their abusive partners. Cara was arrested for drug possession tied to her partner’s actions and faced ongoing trauma, including a distressing court appearance beside her abuser. Jane, a former lawyer, felt betrayed by the system she trusted, as she faced prosecution after reporting her ex-partner for coercive control. The report calls for crucial reforms, including better protections for victims and changes in how evidence of coercive control is handled within law enforcement and the courts.

The findings reveal a troubling trend where survivors of abuse become victims of the justice system. It raises serious concerns about the efficacy and sensitivity of the criminal justice response to domestic violence. Many survivors, seeking protection and justice, find themselves entangled in legal proceedings that lead to further harm rather than healing. As Harriet Wistrich of the CWJ emphasizes, an intelligent approach is needed to focus on genuine threats instead of punishing those subjected to coercive behaviors.

Highlights

As calls for reform grow, safeguarding survivors remains a pressing societal challenge.