When a woman reports domestic abuse but the perpetrator doesn't get charged is very common. The overwhelming majority of recorded domestic abuse related offences do not result in a charge.

I have faced the painful experience of abuse during pregnancy and after, which includes verbal, emotional, mental, financial and even parental alienation - a situation where one parent manipulates a child's view of the other parent, damaging their relationship and healthy development. Many women, like myself, have suffered silently as the fathers secure full rights simply because they are listed on the birth certificate. Currently, removing a parent from a birth certificate is incredibly challenging, especially without exhaustive legal battles or court approvals. This predicament not only prolongs our suffering but also exposes us and our children to potential abuse and neglect.

Women, who go through the profound experience of pregnancy and childbirth, should have the essential right to protect our children by amending birth records when necessary. Being able to remove a parent from a birth certificate due to any kind of abuse, up to twice a year, would provide a crucial legal instrument. This reflects the reality that sometimes the listed parent does not contribute to a healthy environment for the child.

Whilst police reports should be considered an important factor, this shouldn't be a sole factor as many women all over the world are told to report abuse and when they do the police fail to investigate accordingly and most cases end with "no further action." This is usually because when a woman reports abuse the allegation isn't properly recorded, officers don't take statements or collect available evidence, police don't speak to witnesses, body-worn video or other evidence isn't properly obtained, coercive control isn't recognised, officers treat the incident as a “relationship dispute” rather than a crime, risk assessments/safeguarding aren't properly completed, the investigation is closed despite evidence potentially being available, the victim is effectively left to provide all the evidence herself, repeated incidents aren't connected together or police fail to recognise the escalating pattern of abuse.

Additionally, doctors, therapists, social workers, women's refuges should all be classed as evidence when the police fail the victims. 

Securing fast, safe and permanent housing for women is paramount. Without a stable home, mothers facing abuse are further disadvantaged. Transitioning quickly to secure living situations is critical for the well-being of both the mother and the child. Studies have shown that housing instability contributes to stress and disrupts the emotional and mental health of both the parent and children involved.

This petition urgently calls for reform: the legal system must recognize the detrimental impact of abuse and afford women the right to protect their children's interests. Moreover, there should be initiatives to ensure rapid access to safe and healthy housing solutions tailored for those escaping harmful family dynamics.

By signing this petition, you join us in demanding an updated legal procedure that allows women to remove a parent's name from the birth certificate when it serves the best interest of the child, and secure essential housing resources to support mothers in need. Let us stand together to create a safer and more equitable environment for mothers and their children.