Domestic Violence Rates in the North East Are the Highest in England
Written by Daniel Clarke on 6th December 2024
Domestic violence-related crime in the North East has surged by 150% since 2017, making it the region with the highest prevalence of such crimes in England.
Despite the alarming statistics, it is estimated that fewer than 24% of domestic abuse incidents are reported to the police, leaving the majority of cases unrecorded. For the first time in decades, domestic violence in the North East has reached an all-time high.
Addressing the issue, Jeremy Wicking, Senior Media Relations Officer for Sunderland City Council, stated:
“The City Council works closely with many organisations across Sunderland, the region, and nationally to tackle domestic abuse and all violence.”
In the North East, Sunderland City Council has introduced the ‘Safe Accommodation Strategy,’ a scheme designed to provide food, shelter, and support for victims of domestic violence.
This initiative is part of the requirements set out by the Domestic Abuse Act of 2021, which mandates that local authorities implement strategies to ensure victims of domestic abuse have access to safe housing, healthcare, and support for rebuilding their futures.
The primary goal of the strategy is to improve the lives of survivors and their children by creating safer living spaces and fostering a more secure city for everyone. Additionally, the strategy aims to strengthen communication between survivors and the council to encourage the reporting of domestic violence crimes.
Reports indicate that at least one in twelve women in the United Kingdom will experience domestic violence. However, as many cases go unreported, the actual number is likely to be significantly higher.
Women and girls are increasingly at risk of domestic violence, with statistics showing a steady year-on-year rise in reported cases across the country.
In 2023 alone, over one million offences against women and girls were recorded in the United Kingdom. Alarmingly, more than 3,000 women experience some form of domestic violence every day.
Tragically, a woman in England and Wales is killed by an abusive partner or former partner on average once every five days.
Statistics reveal that one in 20 adults in the UK commits domestic violence annually.
Research shows that experiencing domestic abuse in childhood can have long-term effects, often shaping future relationships. Tragically, children who grow up in abusive environments are more likely to become abusers themselves.
Louise Moralee, a child and adolescent counsellor, explained: “A pattern I have noticed in teenagers is that they only see themselves worthy of the love they have witnessed at home, even if that ‘love’ is abusive.”
Children and teenagers often base their self-esteem on the love they experience growing up. This can distort their understanding of what constitutes a healthy relationship, perpetuating cycles of abuse.
Looking ahead, the government launched the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy in 2024 to emphasize that tackling domestic and sexual abuse requires collective action. The strategy also prioritizes ensuring that victims’ voices—including those of children—are heard and considered in creating plans for a safer future.
Accessing support:
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 1414 or email help@dsahelpline.org. For more information: www.dsahelpline.org
Newcastle Integrated Domestic Abuse Service Helpline: 0191 226 3688 For more information: https://www.changing-lives.org.uk/find-support/nidas
