Domestic abuse

Gendered violence in all its forms is unacceptable. It has a huge impact on the lives of those affected. It also affects their families and the wider community.

Our violence against women and girls strategy sets out our priorities for tackling and preventing gender violence until 2024.

Harassment includes:

• staring, leering or suggestive looks
• sexual comments or noises, for example, catcalling or wolf-whistling
• jokes of a sexual nature
• stalking
• unwanted physical contact, for example, touching or standing too close to someone

These seemingly small acts can grow into violence and abuse. 

Women and girls should be able to walk our streets without fear or intimidation. It is not for them to adapt their behaviour to avoid unwanted attention from men or to feel safe. That’s why our campaign ‘Through Her Eyes’ speaks directly to men and boys.

If it’s not called out, sexual harassment can escalate into violence against women and girls. This abuse is often seen as part of normal life. We want men and boys to make it right by challenging their own attitudes and behaviour, and that of others.