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Behind the Headlines: What’s Happening in the Women’s Support Sector

4 women standing in a circle with their arms around each other in support

Some insights into the Women’s Support sector over the last quarter.

Across the UK, more than 60 organisations dedicated to ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) have come together to set out 5 key asks for the upcoming Government VAWG strategy that aims to half VAWG in the next decade. These organisations – including many frontline services – are asking for a stronger, clearer strategy to tackle VAWG, which the Government promised but has yet to deliver, even a year into its timeline.

They have outlined 5 key asks for the upcoming strategy:

  1. Primary prevention
  2. Strategy for of all forms of VAWG
  3. Support for marginalised survivors
  4. Multi-year funding for specialist VAWG services
  5. Cross-departmental commitment

Tackling Misconceptions

There’s growing concern about how media narratives and anti-migrant rhetoric often misrepresent the reality of sexual violence.

One interesting article from the Guardian revealed a Freedom of Information Request indicating 40% of people arrested in the 2024 Far-Right UK riots were previously reported for domestic abuse.

The uncomfortable truth is that VAWG occurs across all communities, regardless of income, ethnicity, age, or background. Women’s organisations are urging for a strategic, inclusive approach that focuses on prevention and survivor support.

Building Momentum Through Dialogue

In July, the Smallwood Trust hosted a Learning Circle in Birmingham, bringing together funders, policy influencers, and women’s organisations to discuss the future of the sector. The theme was “life-saving but underfunded” – a powerful reminder of the challenges many groups face.

The event created space for honest conversations and collaboration, especially among organisations led by and for women who experience disadvantage. It’s a promising step to encourage open dialogue and understanding the reality of the sector.

Turning Crime into Community Support

In Lancashire, the Police and Crime Commissioner is investing over £177,000 into local projects tackling VAWG – using money seized from criminals. It’s a great example of how resources can be redirected to support survivors and strengthen community services.

Sector Voices: What We’re Hearing

From conversations across the sector, a few key themes are emerging:

  • “Everything is going up except for funding”
  • Statutory services are stretched, and many are referring cases to women’s organisations – sometimes appropriately, sometimes not
  • Partnerships are strong, with organisations working together more than ever

Women’s organisations are doing life-saving work, often under immense pressure. We’ll keep an eye on what’s to come next for the sector.

Photo by Jametlene Reskp on Unsplash

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