Reports of strangulation to police in England and Wales have surged, with over 44,000 incidents recorded in the past year. This figure represents a 13% increase from the previous year, according to a new impact report from the Institute for Addressing Strangulation (IFAS). The rise comes four years after non-fatal strangulation became a standalone criminal offence, a change largely championed by domestic abuse survivor and campaigner Rachel Williams.
Ms Williams, who endured an 18-year abusive relationship and was herself strangled six weeks before being shot by her ex-husband in 2011, welcomed the figures. She stated it was positive to see the offence being taken seriously and acknowledged, but stressed the ongoing need for further action to safeguard victims. Her personal experience, where she initially dismissed the severity of strangulation despite suffering repeated incidents, highlighted the critical danger of such acts, which can lead to strokes, brain injuries, and long-term cognitive issues, even without visible external marks.
Since the law's introduction, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has prosecuted 24,446 offences. However, Ms Williams believes the true number of incidents is considerably higher, as many victims may still feel unable to report to the police. The IFAS, established in October 2022 with Home Office funding, aims to enhance the UK's understanding and response to strangulation. Dr Helen Bichard, a principal clinical psychologist involved in the IFAS's creation, noted that while the legalisation was a crucial step, supporting systems were necessary to ensure its effectiveness.
A significant development from IFAS is the creation of the first-ever UK guidelines for medical professionals on strangulation. Dr Bichard emphasised the life-saving potential of these guidelines, ensuring health professionals are equipped to recognise and respond to the often hidden, yet catastrophic, effects of strangulation. She reiterated that there is "no safe way to strangle," underscoring the severe and potentially fatal consequences, even in the absence of obvious injuries.
The increase in reported cases suggests a growing awareness among victims and law enforcement about the gravity of strangulation. However, the call from survivors and experts for more robust sentencing indicates a desire for the judicial system to fully reflect the profound and often life-altering impact this form of domestic violence has on individuals.