More domestic abuse victims protected

Hundreds of domestic abuse victims have been protected through the Met’s use of new powers making it easier to take action against perpetrators.

Since last year, officers in Croydon, Bromley and Sutton have issued 219 emergency notices and secured 180 court-backed Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) – stopping abusers from contacting victims, turning up at their homes, or posting harmful content online.

Breaching an order carries serious consequences. One offender is already serving a 12-month prison sentence, while others have been electronically tagged or directed to attend mandatory programmes, including drug and alcohol support sessions.

The pilot scheme, which has been running since last year, also covers non-physical abuse, including controlling or coercive behaviour, ensuring victims receive protection from all forms of harm. While perpetrators must reside within the pilot areas, victims can live outside these boroughs, widening the reach of the scheme.

Commander Clair Kelland, the Met’s public protection lead, said:

“The Met is committed to securing justice for victims of domestic abuse and the protection of victims is our priority.

“Although still in the early stages, these new powers are proving essential in preventing abuse from escalating and ensuring offenders face swift action – meaning they cannot repeat their behaviour.

“The orders are another tool to protect victims, alongside driving up charges for serious offences including rape and serious sexual assault and providing additional training to officers.”

Traditionally, officers make an application for a DAPO on behalf of victims to a magistrates’ court. However, to ensure the orders are accessible to all victims, an alternative application route has been introduced, allowing victims to apply for a DAPO directly to the family court for free. Criminal, family, and civil court can also make a DAPO of their own volition during existing proceedings, which do not have to be domestic abuse-related.

The Met has launched three services for victims as part of the new Victim Strategy, which has seen a positive increase in the number receiving updates after key milestones in investigations. This includes a new online service, My Met Service, where victims can use a QR code, email or SMS to share instant feedback after they’ve spoken to an officer.  There is also a dedicated phone line, the Victim Focus Desk, which has been expanded to provide more regular updates, and new information leaflets to ensure victims know their rights under the ‘Victim’s Code of Practice’.