Economic Abuse Linked to Victim Deaths Every Three Weeks in England and Wales

A recent analysis by the charity Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) has revealed that economic abuse, a form of coercive control, is linked to the death of a victim every three weeks in England and Wales. The study, which examined over 400 Domestic Homicide Reviews (DHRs) from 2012 to 2024, found that one individual dies every 19 days due to economic abuse combined with intimate partner violence. Economic abuse includes control over finances, such as income, spending, and access to essential resources like food and transportation.

A victim of economic abuse dies every three weeksThe IndependentThe Guardian

The SEA report identified that more than half (51% or 231) of the DHRs analyzed involved economic abuse in the context of intimate partner violence. The majority of victims were female, while most perpetrators were male. Notably, victims of economic abuse tended to be younger, with an average age of 40, compared to 52 for victims of other forms of domestic abuse. The charity emphasized that the actual number of deaths related to economic abuse is likely higher, as many cases may not have been identified or recorded.

A victim of economic abuse dies every three weeksThe IndependentThe Guardian

Sam Smethers, chief executive of SEA, described the findings as a "wake-up call," asserting that economic abuse is not merely a financial issue but a significant risk factor for homicide and suicide. She stated, “Every three weeks, a victim dies because of an abuser who uses economic abuse as a tool for control.” Frank Mullane, chief executive of Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the gaps in professionals' understanding of economic abuse and the need for better training and awareness.

The GuardianThe IndependentA victim of economic abuse dies every three weeks

Despite the alarming statistics, the report indicates that economic abuse is often misunderstood or overlooked by agencies involved in domestic violence cases. Fewer than half of the panels investigating domestic homicides recognized economic abuse, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current practices in identifying and addressing this form of control. Mullane noted that ignorance allows such abuse to flourish, stressing the importance of increased recognition and action.

A victim of economic abuse dies every three weeks

In light of these findings, SEA has called for the integration of economic abuse into government guidance on domestic abuse risk management and for enhanced training for professionals. The charity aims to ensure that economic abuse is identified early and that victims receive the necessary support to escape dangerous situations.

The Guardian

• “Economic abuse is not just a money problem – it is central to coercive control, and it kills.” — Sam Smethers, Chief Executive, Surviving Economic Abuse

The Independent

• “Only through coordinated and consistent action can we protect survivors and prevent further lives from being stolen.” — Sam Smethers, Chief Executive, Surviving Economic Abuse

The Independent

• “We did not have the language to name it, nor a shared understanding of its impact. Ignorance allows abuse to flourish, and I hope professionals will use the recommendations to ensure increased recognition of economic abuse and better practice.” — Frank Mullane, Chief Executive, Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse

The Guardian

The SEA report serves as a critical reminder of the dangers posed by economic abuse and the urgent need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable individuals.

The Independent