Today marks an important step forward in our fight to end violence against women and girls (VAWG). The Government has announced a new VAWG strategy that will deploy the full power of the state to introduce the largest crackdown on violence perpetrated against women and girls in British history.
This strategy includes an extra £19 million to provide support in safe accommodation, significantly expanding domestic abuse services. This is on top of the £480 million already confirmed in local government budgets and £550 million across the justice system over the next three years—funding that will pay for counselling, court guidance, and children’s services to support victims.
For Plymouth, this announcement matters deeply. Our city has felt the devastating impact of violence against women and girls. The tragic murders in Keyham and the heartbreaking loss of Bobbi-Anne McLeod shook our community to its core. These events were not isolated—they were a wake-up call that we must do more to protect women and girls and tackle the culture of violence and misogyny that enables these crimes.
Since those tragedies, Plymouth has led the way in pushing for change. We’ve worked tirelessly with local partners, charities, and community groups to improve safety, provide better support for victims, and challenge harmful attitudes. From securing funding for trauma support services to campaigning for stronger laws on stalking and harassment, we’ve shown what can be achieved when a community comes together.
This new national strategy builds on that work. It means more resources for safe accommodation, more counselling for survivors, and more support for children affected by domestic abuse. It means a justice system better equipped to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
But let’s be clear: this is not just about funding—it’s about changing lives. Every woman and girl in Plymouth deserves to feel safe in her home, on our streets, and in every part of our city. We owe it to Bobbi-Anne, to the families in Keyham, and to every survivor to make sure this strategy delivers real change.
I will continue to fight for Plymouth’s voice to be heard in this national conversation. Together, we can make our city—and our country—a place where women and girls are safe, respected, and supported.