Will changing domestic abuse definition change anything?

The Home Office currently defines domestic violence as “any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse [psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional] between adults (aged 18 or over) who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality”.

The government says extending the definition to 16 and 17-year-olds will increase awareness that young people in this age-group experience domestic violence and abuse, encouraging more of them to access the support they need.

“Maria” was abused by her boyfriend – who has since been jailed – from the age of 13 and took years to access the support she needed: “At the time I was in a situation where I didn’t understand what was happening … I hid everything from everyone.”

Research shows that there has been a 30 per cent cut back in funding for domestic abuse services. Diana Barran, Caada Chief Executive

She told Channel 4 News it “was good” to extend the definition of domestic violence: “I think they should drop the age because of what age I was – there are a lot of girls in the same situation I was in. When you don’t get help ruins the rest of your life.”

Maria urged other young girls suffering at the hands of their partner to speak out: “Tell someone what’s happening. Don’t think you are in the wrong. Don’t let them get away with making you think you’re in the wrong.”

A ‘good start’

But campaigners say there is little point in changing the definition of domestic violence to include more young people without the funding for better training and support.

According to research done by Co-ordinated Action Against Domestic Abuse (Caada) 20 per cent of teenagers under the age of 18 who suffered from domestic violence were pregnant, with more than one in five threatening or attempting suicide.

The charity’s Chief Executive Diana Barran told Channel 4 News extending the definition is “a good start” and that this age group often “falls between the gaps” when it comes accessing help.

But she also voiced concerns about government cuts: “Research shows that there has been a 30 per cent cutback in funding for domestic abuse services and my concern is that it’s accelerating.”

Ms Barran added that there needs to be “a bit more money” for specialist staff who can help a young victim of domestic abuse once he or she has told a teacher or a family member.

Long term impact

The government says it has already ring-fenced nearly £40m of funding up to 2015 for specialist local domestic and sexual violence support services, rape crisis centres, the national domestic violence helplines and the stalking helpline.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “Suffering at the hands of people who are meant to care for you is horrific at any age. But it can be especially damaging for young people – the scars can last a lifetime.

“Campaigners, councils, the police – the people on the frontline – have called for this new definition so that they can do their job and provide victims with the right support.”