NO MORE Week – Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence
Posted on in Family Law
The 2 to the 6 of March 2025 marks No More Week. This annual international campaign seeks to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence, encouraging individuals and communities to stand together and drive change. The week also coincides with International Women’s Day on 8 March.
In the year ending March 2025, an estimated 3.8 million people (2.2 million women and 1.5 million men) aged 16 or over in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse, according to Office for National Statistics data. Approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 to 7 men will experience abuse during their lifetime. The police receive a related call every 30 seconds, yet fewer than 20% of incidents are reported.
Domestic abuse includes a broad range of behaviours. It may involve physical, psychological, sexual, financial or emotional harm. It is legally defined as controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between individuals aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members.
Sexual violence refers to any unwanted sexual act or activity, including offences such as rape, sexual assault and sexual abuse. It can be committed by a stranger, but is often carried out by someone known to the victim, such as a friend, family member, partner or colleague.
Coercive control describes patterns of behaviour intended to isolate, intimidate or control another person. This may include limiting contact with friends and family, monitoring movements or communications, or restricting access to money, support or essential needs.
Domestic abuse and sexual violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, religion, disability or lifestyle.
In line with CPS guidance issued in December 2022, children who are affected by domestic abuse are recognised as victims in their own right, even if they were not present during the abusive incident.
If you are experiencing abuse from a partner or family member, this constitutes a criminal offence. You may report the matter to the police and request that charges be pursued. It is also possible to seek protection through the family courts by applying for an injunction, commonly known as a non-molestation order.
How can we help?
Our specialist domestic abuse team at Tozers understands that seeking advice in these circumstances can feel overwhelming. We can provide guidance on the legal protections available to you, including injunctions, as well as advice on support from other agencies and information to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your family.
A member of our family team can be available at short notice to discuss your situation and, where appropriate, assist you in making an application to the court for protective orders.
J9 Domestic Abuse Initiative
Many members of Tozers staff have received training through the J9 Domestic Abuse Initiative.
The J9 Domestic Abuse Initiative was established in memory of Janine Mundy, a mother of two who was killed by her estranged husband while he was on police bail. Janine signed off her text messages as ‘J9’, which inspired the name of the initiative.
The initiative was launched by Janine’s family in partnership with the police in Camborne, where she lived. It aims not only to raise awareness of domestic abuse but also to support those experiencing abuse to access help safely. This is achieved by ensuring that professionals and members of the community can recognise the signs of domestic abuse and respond appropriately to disclosures.
Research has shown that many victims are unsure where to turn or have been unable to safely confide in someone. The J9 initiative helps to create a visible network of trained individuals who can offer a safe point of contact.
Those who complete J9 training are able to display the J9 logo in their premises and email signatures. This acts as a discreet indicator that they are a safe person or place where a disclosure can be made and handled appropriately. Trained individuals also receive an information pack containing resources to support anyone who comes forward.
If you would like to find out more about the initiative or enquire about receiving training, please visit J9 Training Initiative | Safer Places.
No More Week is an opportunity to come together to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence, stand in solidarity with those affected, and encourage meaningful change. Abuse can affect anyone, and it is important to us that people know support is available and that they do not have to face it alone.
If you, a friend, or a family member are impacted and would like to speak to someone, you will be met with understanding, compassion and the support of trained professionals at Tozers, who are here to guide you every step of the way.