We are survivors of domestic violence, it affects our lives and the lives of our children. Individually our stories are unique but we are united in our determination to make a change.

Since speaking out about our abuse many people have shared their experiences with us. One story we hear time and time again is ex-partners breaching their licenses or restraining orders. But…when the breach is reported to the police often nothing happens. The perpetrator sometimes is not even arrested, or held accountable for the breach. However, if an arrest and charges are brought for a breach,  then we are failed at Court.

When a restraining order or licence is issued by Court this is basically the perpetrators last chance. A breach should show to Court that the perpetrator doesn’t care for a list of rules and regulations, and sadly this is confirmed when there is not a consequence for a breach. A breach should bring a mandatory custodial sentence. 

That's why we've started this petition calling on Sir Keir Starmer and Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Shabana Mahmood MP, to review licenses given to perpetrators of domestic abuse and violence, and make sure victims are protected.

When you report domestic abuse and violence to the police and a partner is convicted, you should be confident that you will be protected from them. The power of arrest should mean the power of arrest and as a matter of priority. 

People who have experienced domestic abuse should not have to live in fear for the rest of their lives.  

I (Rachel) have spoken to many prosecutors who have confirmed to me that they deal with a ‘huge’ amount of breaches, what does this say? It says that we cannot expect a perpetrator who is not a decent member of society to adhere to a piece of paper with rules. This is why restraining orders and licenses should be a powerful and meaningful order with a heavy consequence when breached. 

Please join us & sign our petition! We believe with a united voice we will be heard. We will keep shouting until we see change. Let's put an end to domestic abuse, we owe it to the next generation, our children and our grandchildren. 

By Rachel Williams, Mandy Thomas & Becky O'Brien