By Isle of Wight Observer
Late November to early December marks several important awareness days on domestic abuse and violence against women and girls, including White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence.
As a male MP, I’ve made it my mission to have honest conversations, both with the women in my life and with the wider community, about domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
I was absolutely shocked by the sheer volume of casework my team receives from victims of domestic abuse. In response, I asked for a briefing from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary. They kindly arranged a briefing, at Newport Police Station, for my team and I to understand how we can best support victims. While I was impressed by the response of our Island police to tackle this issue, I was disappointed to learn that domestic abuse on the Island has risen by 25 per cent.
That’s why I was pleased to recently bring forward two Parliamentary debates: the first focused on protecting children from domestic abuse nationwide, and the second addressed government support for women and girls on the Isle of Wight.
Both debates aimed to highlight gaps in provision. The first debate sought to address the fact that, while children are now recognised as victims in their own right in domestic abuse, further provision is needed to ensure that they can access appropriate support.
The second debate demonstrated how inadequate cross-Solent transport further entrenches inequalities already faced by women on the mainland, limiting access to healthcare, reducing job opportunities, and leaving victims of domestic abuse with fewer options to seek safety and support.
I’ve heard many people say, what does that have to do with the Island? The reality is that from my conversations with survivors – it’s an issue that should concern us all on the Island. And the government aren’t just listening, they’ve taken action: the Isle of Wight will have its own Pathfinder Court by early 2026.
While I welcome the announcement, it’s up to all of us, especially men, to challenge violence and domestic abuse when we see it.
