In a significant move to strengthen the fight against violence towards women and girls, the Home Secretary has unveiled new plans aimed at enhancing the police response to domestic abuse cases. The announcement, made on Friday, September 20, marks the first step in the government’s ambitious goal to halve violence against women and girls within the next decade.

Central to this initiative is the introduction of domestic abuse specialists in 999 control rooms. This measure, part of “Raneem’s Law,” is named in memory of Raneem Oudeh and her mother Khaola Saleem, who were tragically murdered by Raneem’s ex-husband in 2018 despite multiple reports to the police.

The government will fund a pilot program in selected police forces, starting in early 2025. These specialists will advise on risk assessments and work alongside officers to ensure that victims receive prompt responses and swift referrals to support services.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of these measures, stating: “Victims of appalling domestic abuse need to know that the police will be there for them. Today’s measures are the start of this new government’s mission to halve violence against women and girls in a decade.”

Nour Norris, aunt and sister of the victims and lead campaigner for Raneem’s Law, expressed her pride in the government’s action, saying: “Raneem’s Law will ensure that domestic abuse specialists are present in 999 control rooms so victims’ calls for help are taken seriously and save lives by making sure no warning signs are ignored.”

Additionally, the government announced the launch of a new domestic abuse protection order pilot in November. These orders will provide longer-term protection for victims and impose stricter sanctions on abusers who violate them.

Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, highlighted the significance of these changes, stating: “Embedding domestic abuse specialists in 999 control rooms and rolling out new protective orders to pilot forces and courts across the country are both huge steps towards the best response for victims possible.”

The Home Secretary will lead a cross-government approach to violence against women and girls through the Safer Streets Mission Board, ensuring a coordinated and effective effort across government departments.