Story perspectives

Advocates Push for Coercive Control Law Reforms in UK

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rachael's experience with the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) highlights gaps in UK law on coercive control.
Since 2015, coercive control is criminal in intimate relationships in England and Wales, but not in other settings.
Survivors, including Rachael, advocate legal changes to address this gap.
Parliament shows growing interest as Home Office minister Sarah Jones says expansion is not planned because the law targets personal relationships.

History

Historical Context

The Serious Crime Act 2015 introduced a criminal offense for controlling or coercive behavior in intimate relationships in England and Wales, marking a pivotal change in recognizing psychological abuse. This law, influenced by advocacy groups like Women's Aid, aimed to protect victims but left gaps for those outside intimate contexts. Ongoing discussions in Parliament may lead to broader protections for vulnerable individuals.

1 of 2

Story summary

Rachael's experience with the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) highlights gaps in UK law on coercive control.
Since 2015, coercive control is criminal in intimate relationships in England and Wales, but not in other settings.
Survivors, including Rachael, advocate legal changes to address this gap.
Parliament shows growing interest as Home Office minister Sarah Jones says expansion is not planned because the law targets personal relationships.

1 / 2