The former Spice Girl said: “No matter which political party you are in, I’m asking you for your commitment today that domestic abuse is an issue you will prioritise.” 

Melanie Brown MBE is backing Women’s Aid’s General Election manifesto. Launched amidst a national crisis of violence against women, as nearly 1 in 5 crimes recorded by the police are domestic abuse related. 

The economic and social costs of domestic abuse in England were just under £78 billion in 2022 [2], with a failure to effectively respond putting financial strain on public services like the NHS 

Women’s Aid’s manifesto for the 2024 general election calls for the national prioritisation of domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG), and for political parties to pledge their commitment to investing, supporting and preventing. 

Women’s Aid Patron, Melanie Brown MBE, said: 

“Domestic abuse isn’t like other issues as so many affected just can’t safely speak out and tell you, but it is everywhere and I’m telling you today lives are at risk, and women in particular need you. No matter which political party you are in, I’m asking you for your commitment today that domestic abuse is an issue you will prioritise.” 

Farah Nazeer, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said:  

“It is clear that the current system is failing survivors of domestic abuse, as well as society at large. Just one woman dying at the hands of her partner is too many – and the situation is much worse than this. We urge all political parties to take a whole-system response to tackling violence against women and girls; making it a national priority to save and transform lives. By prioritising the needs of women and child survivors, including those experiencing the most extreme forms of marginalisation, the whole of society will benefit.”

Image credit: Women’s Aid