Story perspectives

UK Government Forms Teams to Combat Sexual Violence by 2029

12/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

The government will establish dedicated rape and sexual offences teams across all police forces by 2029 as part of a strategy to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG).
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasised the urgency of addressing these crimes and declared them a national emergency.
Stakeholders warn of delays and insufficient engagement with VAWG experts, despite the introduction of new domestic abuse protection orders to let judges sanction offenders.

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Story summary

The government will establish dedicated rape and sexual offences teams across all police forces by 2029 as part of a strategy to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG).
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasised the urgency of addressing these crimes and declared them a national emergency.
Stakeholders warn of delays and insufficient engagement with VAWG experts, despite the introduction of new domestic abuse protection orders to let judges sanction offenders.