Victims’ Commissioner comments on new ‘Raneem’s Law’ measures introduced to improve how police respond to domestic abuse

Today, the Home Office announced new measures aimed at improving the response to domestic violence within the police. These form part of Raneem’s Law, legislation announced in response to the failures leading up to the tragic murder of Raneem Oudeh and Khaola Saleem by Ms Oudeh’s ex-partner.

The steps — embedding domestic abuse specialists within certain 999 control rooms and enhanced domestic abuse protection orders, both pilot schemes — aim to ensure victims get a fast response when needed and are referred to support services as quickly as possible.

The enhanced orders scheme will come into force in November, whilst selected 999 control rooms will see domestic abuse specialists embedded early 2025.

Commenting on the announcement, the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, said:

It is essential first responders are equipped to spot, identify and act on domestic abuse — and police have the necessary tools to keep victims safe.

Too often, crucial signs of domestic abuse are missed or dismissed, sometimes with devastating consequences. Embedding domestic abuse specialists within 999 control rooms is a welcome step toward improving how police respond to domestic abuse. I hope it will result in reports being acted upon swiftly and treated with the seriousness they deserve. These specialists should also be able to put survivors in contact with vital support services.

Enhanced domestic abuse protection orders are also welcome. That said, I am only too aware police often fail to act on beaches of existing orders. I hope that alongside these orders will be a commitment to rigorous and effective enforcement of protective measures across the board. This is vital if we are to keep victims safe and give them the confidence to come forward and report their abusers.

ENDS