**
In a significant shift towards justice for victims of domestic violence, Justice Secretary David Lammy has announced an increase in the minimum sentence for domestic murder, responding to years of relentless advocacy from mothers who have lost their daughters to tragic circumstances. This decision marks a crucial step in addressing the discrepancies in sentencing that have long favoured perpetrators in domestic settings over those committing similar crimes in public.
A Heartfelt Plea
During a poignant meeting at the Palace of Westminster, Lammy was confronted with the heart-wrenching stories of mothers who have suffered unimaginable loss. Carole Gould presented him with a photograph of her daughter, Ellie, who was murdered in 2019 by her ex-boyfriend just a day after ending their relationship. Similarly, Julie Devey shared the story of her daughter, Poppy, who was killed at the age of 24 by her former partner in 2018. Both mothers expressed their anguish over the current sentencing disparities, noting how the maximum sentence for domestic murder is significantly lower than for murders committed outside the home.
These mothers underscored a troubling reality: the killers of their daughters received sentences that felt inadequate—Thomas Griffiths was sentenced to just 12.5 years, while Joe Atkinson received 16 years. The mothers argued that such sentences implicitly devalued their daughters’ lives, reinforcing the notion that domestic violence is less serious than other forms of murder.
A Pivotal Moment
The atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically when Gould, in a moment of raw emotion, challenged Lammy to envision the pain of losing a child. “Imagine this was your daughter,” she urged, compelling him to confront the emotional weight of his role. Lammy, visibly moved, acknowledged his power to effect change and promised to raise the minimum sentence for domestic murder victims to 25 years.
The emotional impact of this exchange was profound. “We’re just a bit stunned, thinking have we heard this right?” remarked Gould, as the gravity of the moment sank in. It was a breakthrough that left the mothers in tears of relief and disbelief, marking a pivotal victory in their long-standing campaign for justice.
Campaigning for Change
The announcement followed years of dedicated activism from Gould, Devey, and Elaine Newborough, who lost her daughter, Megan, in 2021. Together, they founded the advocacy group Killed Women, striving to raise awareness about the alarming rates of violence against women and the systemic failures within the justice system. Their campaigns, including “You Were Told” and “Fallen Women,” spotlighted the inadequacies in responding to domestic abuse and called for a re-evaluation of existing legal frameworks.
Their tireless efforts gained traction, culminating in a historic moment where they witnessed the fruits of their labour in the Commons. Newborough described the occasion as “momentous,” reflecting on the bittersweet nature of their victory in the context of their ongoing grief. “Our girls will be so proud of us, I’m sure,” she said, encapsulating the emotional journey that brought them to this milestone.
Continued Advocacy Needed
While the increase in sentencing for domestic murder is a significant step forward, campaigners acknowledge that the fight is far from over. Dame Nicole Jacobs, the domestic abuse commissioner, expressed her disappointment that the new sentencing guidelines do not extend to family members who commit murder, highlighting ongoing gaps in the system that require further attention.
Devey remains resolute in the pursuit of justice, vowing to continue advocating for comprehensive reform. “We’re not going to stop now,” she affirmed, underscoring the need for sustained pressure to address the nuances of domestic violence and ensure that all victims receive fair treatment under the law.
Why it Matters
This development is not merely a legislative change; it signifies a growing recognition of the pervasive issue of domestic violence and the urgent need for reform in the criminal justice system. By increasing the minimum sentence for domestic murder, the government is sending a powerful message that these crimes will not be treated as lesser offences. This change embodies a collective commitment to honour the lives lost and to protect future generations from similar fates. The voices of these grieving mothers have catalysed a movement that could reshape societal attitudes towards domestic violence, ensuring that justice is served not just in words, but in meaningful action.
