Budget provides 'little evidence' on how ambitions to halve violence against women and girls will be realised

"The Government has pledged to halve violence against women and girls (VAWG), but today’s budget didn’t provide a clear picture on how this will become a reality. We need clear and sustained investment in prevention.  

“The new misogyny prevention fund of £15m over three years is a positive start that recognises the essential role of prevention in tackling VAWG. But if the government is serious about genuine change, this relatively small amount stretched across multiple years is nowhere near enough to create the culture shift needed. Nearly a year on from the Government’s VAWG strategy and more than two years after its initial commitment, there is little evidence that progress is moving at the pace women and girls have been promised within the decade. 

“Our research found that children are routinely exposed to online content that normalises, trivialises and excuses violence against women and girls. As ministers prepare new social media restrictions for children, it is vital that every child learns how to recognise harmful content and stay in control online. Teachers, parents and carers need the support and training to help children do that. Young people have also told us they need safe places to connect beyond their screens, which requires funding for youth services, community spaces and inclusive opportunities for every child. 

“For too long, organisations supporting survivors have been pushed to breaking point by chronic underfunding and record-high demand. The sector cannot continue to rely on short-term funding pots, which are no substitute for the sustained investment needed to ensure survivors can access the support they need, when they need it. 

“Girls deserve more than empty promises. The Government must back its ambition to halve violence against women and girls with the long-term funding needed to prevent violence, support survivors and help every girl thrive. Today’s budget fell short of that.”