Getty Images
Increasing Concerns Over Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women and girls has been labeled an “endemic” issue in London, as discussed in recent testimonies to the London Assembly.
“This is a profoundly serious concern,” stated Janaya Walker, head of public affairs at the End Violence Against Women coalition.
On Tuesday, the London Assembly Police and Crime Committee revealed the initiation of an investigation specifically focused on the effects of this type of violence on young people in the city.
Traumatizing Experiences
The Youth Endowment Fund indicated that individuals aged 16-19 are most commonly involved in incidents of rape and serious sexual offenses.
Ellie Softley, head of education at the charity Everyone’s Invited, expressed concern that “something is fundamentally wrong” with the current safeguarding measures in schools.
“Rape culture is prevalent in our society and finds fertile ground particularly in schools,” she asserted.
She added, “Many young people feel that the process of reporting incidents to a safeguarding leader is often more traumatic than the assault itself.”
Professor Jessica Ringrose from University College London advocated for the introduction of “high-quality” relationship and sex education in schools, emphasizing that it is frequently underfunded.
Poor Data on Violence Against Women and Girls
Walker called for a comprehensive needs assessment across London to address all forms of violence against women and girls.
“The experience of sexual harassment is disproportionately felt by younger demographics,” she explained. “It seems various services are struggling, leaving young women and girls without adequate support. The situation is troubling.”
She lamented that assessing whether conditions are improving or worsening is challenging due to the lack of reliable data.
The London Mayor’s draft Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029 aims to hold more perpetrators accountable and enhance efforts to prevent misogyny.
A representative for Sir Sadiq Khan emphasized the urgency of addressing the national epidemic of violence against women and girls within both law enforcement and society.
“Sadiq is at the forefront in London, advocating for a public health approach to combat this issue,” they noted. “However, significant work remains, which is why a revised strategy on violence against women and girls will be published later this year to build upon the progress made thus far.”
The spokesperson confirmed that the Mayor supports the Met’s initiative to restore trust among women and girls.
