Violence against Women and Girls Strategy

Alison Hume Excerpts

Monday 15th December 2025 Commons Chamber

[Jess Phillips]

I have known Rachel for over a decade. She was one of the key campaigners on the presumption of contact—I think that was the first issue I ever met her to discuss—because of the harm that was done to her children. It is not for me to talk about that without her permission, but we campaigned on that, and it is really good that we have been able to deliver on it as a Government.

The hon. Member talks about prevention. Preventing people from becoming perpetrators is as key as supporting victims.

[Alison Hume (Scarborough and Whitby) (Lab)]

I thank my hon. Friend for her answer and look forward to the release of the violence against women and girls strategy. A women’s refuge for Scarborough was approved three years ago, but the project has stalled. Will the Minister say whether the extra £19 million investment announced today can be used finally to deliver a refuge for victims of domestic violence in Scarborough and Whitby?

[Jess Phillips]

Far be it from me to make policy and commissioning decisions for the council in my hon. Friend’s area—although I would quite like to just say yes to her. Absolutely, there is extra money coming from this Government that can be used to expand refuge provision, and I am sure she will take the recommendations to her local council and push for what sounds like a much-needed refuge in Scarborough.