Content note: the following article contains references to domestic abuse that readers might find upsetting. 

Mel B has launched a petition, in partnership with Women’s Aid, to call on UK judges to undertake expert-led domestic abuse training.

Announcing the petition via Instagram, Mel shared an open and emotional caption about what it means to her, and called on more to be done to help protect women and children.

The petition pushes for judges to receive mandatory training from experts who work with women and children facing domestic abuse, such as Women’s Aid, rather than the current training that is designed by the judicial system.

In the petition, Mel says: “On behalf of survivors of domestic abuse, I, Melanie Brown MBE, am calling for the Judicial College to commit to compulsory ongoing training that is designed and delivered with experts. I am also calling [on the] government to be accountable for this and taking forward the recommendations in the Harm Panel Report 2020, including an urgent change that where there is domestic abuse or serious harm, we do not presume there should be contact – children’s safety always has to come first. Our research shows that survivors do not feel that they have been listened to or their concerns acted on – it is not good enough, and we cannot wait any longer.”

Statistics on domestic abuse are harrowing, with the latest research reporting that 2.1 million people in the UK experience domestic abuse. Moreover, Women’s Aid has written two reports on the family courts – 29 Child Homicides and 19 Child Homicides – revealing how children were killed because of unsafe contact decisions.

It’s clear this petition is desperately needed and that the family courts need reform to help protect women and children. You can sign the petition here. 

The UK domestic violence helpline is 0808 2000 247. Alternatively, contact Women’s Aid or Refuge for advice and support.

Images: Getty