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In a significant turn for victims’ rights, Justice Secretary David Lammy has pledged to increase the minimum sentence for domestic murder following impassioned appeals from grieving mothers whose daughters were tragically killed. This decision comes after years of relentless campaigning by the families of victims, who highlighted the stark disparities in sentencing based on the domestic nature of these heinous crimes.
A Heartfelt Appeal
During a poignant meeting in his Westminster office, Lammy was confronted with the photographs of women who lost their lives at the hands of intimate partners, presented by their mothers. Carole Gould shared the story of her daughter, Ellie, who was murdered by a former classmate the day after she ended their relationship in 2019. Similarly, Julie Devey spoke about her 24-year-old daughter, Poppy, who was killed by an ex-boyfriend in 2018. The mothers expressed their anguish that, due to the circumstances of their daughters’ deaths, the perpetrators received comparatively lenient sentences—12.5 years for Griffiths and 16 years for Atkinson—far less than what would have been handed down for similar crimes committed in public.
“Imagine this was your daughter,” Gould implored Lammy, a statement that struck a deep chord. The Justice Secretary, known for his commitment to justice reform, appeared visibly moved by their stories.
A Significant Policy Change
Following this emotional encounter, Lammy announced that those convicted of murdering a current or former partner in England and Wales would now face an increased minimum sentence of 25 years, effectively closing a significant gap in the justice system. The mothers, who were present in the public gallery, were overcome with emotion, grasping each other tightly as they absorbed the weight of this momentous news.
“It’s amazing, but it’s just so sad that it’s been so hard,” said Elaine Newborough, whose daughter Megan was murdered in 2021. “Our girls will be so proud of us, I’m sure.”
This announcement marks a critical step forward for the campaign led by these mothers, who have united under the organisation Killed Women to raise awareness about domestic violence and advocate for systemic change. Their efforts have included various campaigns aimed at addressing the failures of the justice system to protect vulnerable women.
A Long Road to Justice
The journey to this pivotal moment was fraught with challenges. Devey and Gould connected during a shared moment of grief and soon began collaborating to amplify their voices. Their campaigns have included the “You Were Told” initiative, which highlighted systemic failures in addressing domestic abuse, and the “Fallen Women” campaign that pressed police to investigate domestic abuse in cases of unexplained deaths.
In 2025, they launched the “Invisible Women” campaign, which brought attention to the unique vulnerabilities faced by Black, minoritised, and migrant women in abusive relationships. Their advocacy has not gone unnoticed; prominent figures such as MP Jess Phillips have supported their efforts, recognising the importance of righting the injustices embedded within the current legal framework.
Looking Ahead
While the newly announced measures have been welcomed, there are still significant areas of concern. The domestic abuse commissioner, Dame Nicole Jacobs, pointed out that the new sentencing guidelines do not apply to cases where victims are killed by family members, a gap that activists argue needs urgent addressing.
Despite the challenges ahead, the mothers remain resolute. Devey reaffirmed their commitment to advocacy, stating, “We’re not going to stop now.” Gould expressed her determination to ensure that her daughter’s killer is treated with the severity of the law warranted by his actions.
Why it Matters
This decision not only represents a milestone in the fight against domestic violence but also highlights the power of grassroots activism in shaping policy. As these mothers have shown, personal tragedy can catalyse meaningful change, pushing for a justice system that values all lives equally. The new measures are a testament to their tireless efforts and a beacon of hope for countless families seeking justice in an often indifferent system. The journey is far from over, but this moment signifies a critical shift towards accountability and compassion within the UK’s legal framework.
