Naomi Long

A new domestic and sexual abuse strategy and three-year action plan was jointly launched by justice minster Naomi Long and health minister Mike Nesbitt yesterday.

It includes data showing that on average domestic abuse is reported to police every 16 minutes and a sexual offence every two hours.

The strategy makes clear that domestic and/or sexual abuse cannot be tackled in isolation, and that a whole society approach is required. Central to this is ensuring the voices of victims, including children and young people, are valued and at the core of decision making.

The ministers also announced the new Children’s Sexual Offences Legal Advisers (SOLA) scheme, which will provide free legal advice to children and young people affected by sexual crime.

They also announced a small grant scheme to support the invaluable work provided by the community and voluntary sector.

Mrs Long said: “We know that domestic and sexual abuse transcends boundaries of gender, age, sexual orientation, and ethnicity. It is insidious and pervading, leaving an indelible mark. Its victims are those who have been directly impacted by it and those who have witnessed it, or who live in its formidable shadow.

“We are committed to creating a society in Northern Ireland where domestic and sexual abuse are not tolerated, where victims receive the support they need and where those responsible are held to account. This strategy is our sincere attempt to deliver on that aim, so that no one has to live in fear of abuse.”

Mr Nesbitt said: “Everyone has the right to live a life that is safe and free from the fear of domestic and sexual abuse. That is the ultimate aim of this strategy. We are building on what we know works, on evidence-based practice, and we will continue to listen to the voices of those with lived experience.

“Partnership is a key thread running through this strategy. If we are going to tackle domestic and sexual abuse, we need to work together. None of us can do this alone.”

The seven-year strategy is designed around five pillars: partnership, prevention, children & young people, support and provision, and justice.