**
A recent survey indicates that British adults are increasingly alarmed by violence against women and girls (VAWG), with nearly nine out of ten expressing concern about the issue. This finding comes at a pivotal moment for the government, which has been focusing its efforts on immigration and other pressing matters. The report, set to be released by the Health Equality Foundation, highlights a critical need for government action to restore trust in systems designed to protect women.
Growing Concern Among the Public
The Health Equality Foundation’s report, which includes findings from a poll conducted by GGF Insights, reveals that 88 per cent of adults are worried about VAWG, ranking it as a top concern alongside the NHS (91 per cent) and the cost of living (93 per cent). In comparison, only 77 per cent expressed concern about immigration, while 72 per cent were worried about unemployment. This data signals a significant public demand for more focus on women’s safety issues.
Baroness Nargund, founder of the Health Equality Foundation and a Labour peer, stated that the government has made strides in addressing women’s issues but must expedite the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing safety and wellbeing. “Decades of neglect have eroded women’s trust,” she noted, stressing that it’s vital for women to see tangible changes in their daily lives to rebuild that trust.
Government’s Response and Strategies
Last year, the government unveiled its strategy to combat VAWG, which aims to halve instances of such violence within a decade. However, this initiative has not received the same level of attention as the administration’s immigration policies, which are a cornerstone of Labour’s agenda to regain support from voters disillusioned with Reform UK.
While Labour’s commitment to addressing VAWG is commendable, it appears overshadowed by Sir Keir Starmer’s focus on migration issues. Critics argue that the urgency of tackling VAWG should be elevated, particularly given the significant number of women who report feeling unsafe in various environments. The same poll revealed that 44 per cent of women have actively avoided certain places or situations due to safety concerns—compared to 26 per cent of men—highlighting a stark gender disparity in perceptions of security.
The Path Forward
According to Baroness Nargund, the government has made commendable progress, citing initiatives such as the renewed Women’s Health Strategy and the expansion of funded childcare as positive steps. However, she emphasised that the critical focus must now shift to effective delivery. “If women can see and feel that change in their everyday lives over the next year, then trust can be rebuilt,” she remarked.
As the government grapples with its immigration agenda, the voices of citizens concerned about VAWG cannot be ignored. The recent polling underscores the pressing need for a balanced approach that prioritises women’s safety while addressing other societal issues.
Why it Matters
This poll reflects a significant shift in public sentiment, with violence against women and girls emerging as a primary concern for many Britons. As the government navigates its policy priorities, the findings serve as a clarion call for leaders to take decisive action on VAWG, ensuring that women’s safety is not sidelined. The implications of this focus extend beyond policy; they touch on the fundamental rights and dignity of half the population, making it imperative for the government to respond with urgency and accountability.
