UK: What new domestic abuse legislation means for social workers

Article here. Excerpt:

'The act sets out the first definition in law of what constitutes domestic abuse. The definition goes well beyond physical violence. It recognises that domestic abuse can be emotional, coercive or controlling or economic. To fall within the definition, both victim and perpetrator must be “personally connected”. The definition ensures that different types of relationships are captured, including ex-partners and family members.

The definition is gender neutral to ensure that all victims and all types of domestic abuse are sufficiently captured, and no victim is excluded from protection or access to services. The supporting statutory guidance will provide more detail on the features of domestic abuse, including by recognising that the majority of victims are women, and the majority of perpetrators are men. The definition of domestic abuse does not extend to paid and unpaid carers, unless they are also personally connected, such as a family member.'