Barnardo's 'disappointed' by scope of Victims' Bill consultation

Published on
09 December 2021

The UK's leading children's charity is disappointed that the Victims' Bill consultation does not address the postcode lottery for child victims of domestic abuse.

Barnardo’s interim co-CEO Michelle Lee-Izu said: 

The Victims' Bill is a unique opportunity to make sure that children who experience abuse are heard, seen and supported.

“One in five children experience domestic abuse, yet for the majority of victims who remain in their own homes, access to specialist services is a postcode lottery.”

Earlier this year, the Government committed to consult on a statutory duty to ensure all child and adult victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence can access support, no matter where they live.

“We are disappointed that today’s consultation does not address this issue, which is championed by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and many others, and we look forward to working with the Government to strengthen these proposals and improve access to support for child victims.”