Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls

Monday 22 November 2021 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Local agencies are working together for effective interventions against violence against women and girls.
  • The Minister stated that York receives additional police funding and resources.
  • Atal y Fro, a programme encouraging GPs to follow IRIS for victim identification and support, was praised by the Minister.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Rachael Maskell Labour (Co-op) York Central
Context

The question arises from the need to address the ongoing issue of violence against women and girls, which requires coordinated efforts across different agencies.

Question

What steps have been taken to support local partnerships to help prevent violence against women and girls?

Answer from Rachel Maclean

Our strategy involves different local agencies working together for effective interventions. Guidance, training, and online resources are provided for police, healthcare professionals, and educators. A national statement of expectations will be refreshed soon to support local areas in commissioning services.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific details on the effectiveness or timeline of these measures were not provided.

How: Under Review

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Context

The question is prompted by concerns about insufficient funding despite the high prevalence of misogyny and violence against women, which necessitates strong multi-agency cooperation.

Question

The unacceptable and continued prevalence of misogyny and violence against women and girls highlights the need for multi-agency partnerships. Will the Minister ensure that the police have adequate resources to build these partnerships?

Answer from Rachel Maclean

I reject claims about inadequate funding and resource allocation. York receives 114 additional police officers and up to £171.7 million of funding, an increase of £5.5 million. I suggest talking to local police and crime commissioners to ensure proper prioritisation.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not address the specific ask regarding assurance for adequate resources for multi-agency partnerships.

How: Funding Is Sufficient

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Context

The question stems from the concern that some measures introduced during the pandemic inadvertently led to an increase in domestic violence. The focus is on highlighting a programme that helps GPs identify such issues.

Question

Domestic violence has become more prevalent due to pandemic-related restrictions. Can I draw attention to Atal y Fro, which encourages GPs to follow the IRIS programme for better identification and support of victims?

Answer from Rachel Maclean

Thanking Alun Cairns for highlighting the excellent work of Atal y Fro, which highlights the role of frontline GPs in identifying and supporting victims. The Minister also congratulates him on running the London marathon to raise funds for charity.

Not addressed: Did not address the specific ask regarding raising awareness of IRIS programme.

How: Changed Subject

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Q4 Jess Phillips Lab Birmingham Yardley
Context

The question is prompted by a report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate that highlighted failings in the national response to violence against women and girls, with specific recommendations for improvement.

Question

Will the Minister commit to implementing the detailed action plan commanded by HMIC within the stated timescale?

Answer from Rachel Maclean

If I may make a point on funding, the Government are providing £300 million of support for victims and witness services this year.

Not addressed: Did not address the specific ask regarding commitment to implement inspectorate recommendations within stated timescale.

How: Changed Subject

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