New statutory guidance for domestic abuse related death reviews (DARDRs), previously known as domestic homicide reviews (DHRs), has been published today, 15 September 2026. These reviews are legislated for under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004.
The Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 amended the 2004 Act, changing the name of the reviews and aligning the definition of domestic abuse with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. These legislative changes also came into force today.
The government stated that while it is dedicated to the principles of these reviews, there was room for improvement. The new guidance aims to place victims at the heart of reviews, streamline administrative processes, and embed oversight. This is part of a broader Home Office reform programme, which includes a new Home Office Quality Assurance Board introduced in 2025 and a commitment to develop a new oversight mechanism for recommendations.
Compulsory training for DARDR chairs is also planned to ensure individuals are equipped to fulfil their responsibilities effectively.