No More Week 2023: 5 facts about sexual violence

Sunday 5th March to Sunday 12th March is No More Week 2023; a campaign run by UK Says No More. The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of the plight to end domestic abuse and sexual violence across the nation. 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the campaign and the urgent message is ‘more no more’. Here are 5 important facts relating to sexual violence and domestic abuse; we hope these provide insight into the drastic and shocking statistics.

1. 1 in 2 rapes against women are carried out by their partner or ex-partner
2. 1 in 3 women & 1 in 8 men will experience a form of domestic abuse in their lifetime
3. On average 1 million children experience domestic abuse in the UK every year 
4. Two women a week are killed by a current or former partner
5. Rape is about having power and control in a situation and is not necessarily motivated by sexual gratification

These statistics alone demonstrate the need for causes such as UK Says No More and the importance of the campaigns. In raising awareness, we ask that you use the hashtag #UKsaysnomore and visit their website to find fundraisers and ways to get involved. 

In addition to this, we would like to raise awareness on two important subjects that more people need to be talking about. These include: 

1. Consent can be withdrawn at any point, even during the act of sexual intercourse. 
2. Domestic abuse can appear in many forms and not necessarily in a physical form. These include: controlling and coercive behaviour, emotional abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, gaslighting, ‘honour’-based violence, FGM and stalking. 

If you or someone you know is suffering from an act of domestic abuse or sexual violence, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. There is an additional helpline specifically designed for men called ‘Confidential Men’s Advice Line’, they can be reached by calling 0808 801 0327. Alternatively, if you need advice and wish to discuss any issues with a Solicitor, call our friendly Family team on 01302 341414 or 0114 272 1884. Alternatively, you can fill out our online enquiry form. 

We have further articles on our website relating to domestic abuse, here are some links you may find helpful:

• Change in common assault law in domestic abuse cases 
• Stalking and harassment | Domestic abuse awareness month