Women and children Abuse Act 2024

TRW & Co’s UK branch is based at Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7QH, England.

Overview and scope

A statutory framework entitled the Women and Children Abuse Act 2024 (hypothetical for comparative purposes) would seek to consolidate and strengthen protection against sexual and non‑sexual violence, exploitation and trafficking where victims are women or children. In England and Wales these policy aims sit alongside existing primary criminal and safeguarding regimes (for example, the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, Sexual Offences Act 2003 and Children Act 1989/2004). Any new statute should be read and applied in the context of those established regimes and prosecutorial practice.

Key offences and procedural features

A consolidated Act typically covers offences such as rape, sexual assault, trafficking, abduction and serious harassment. Procedural features that often accompany specialist legislation include:

• designation of certain offences as cognisable and prioritised for investigation;
• special measures in court to support vulnerable witnesses (screens, video evidence, pre‑recorded cross‑examination);
• expanded powers for seizure of evidence relating to digital communications and trafficking networks;
• standards for victim referrals to support services and legal aid gateways.

Safeguards and rights of the accused

Strengthening protections for victims must be balanced with procedural safeguards to protect the rights of those accused. In England and Wales those safeguards include the presumption of innocence, the prosecution’s burden of proof beyond reasonable doubt, disclosure obligations under the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996 and access to legal representation. Practitioners should monitor how any new statutory presumptions or evidential provisions interact with fair trial requirements and disclosure case law.

Practical considerations and checklist for practitioners

For criminal defence, prosecution and civil practitioners advising organisations or individuals, practical issues include evidence preservation, safeguarding obligations and media management. Checklist:

• Confirm applicable offences and whether specialist prosecutorial guidance applies.
• Secure and preserve physical and digital evidence promptly (body‑worn camera footage, mobile devices, cloud data).
• Consider immediate safeguarding and child protection referrals (local authority, MARAC where relevant).
• Assess disclosure obligations early and obtain appropriate case management directions.
• Advise clients on interview and attendance rights, and on avoiding prejudicial public comment.
• Explore civil protective measures where appropriate (non‑molestation injunctions, occupation orders).

Jurisdiction and sources

Primary sources and guidance for practice in England and Wales include legislation.gov.uk, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) guidance on domestic abuse and sexual offences, the Judiciary of England and Wales, the Home Office and HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Local safeguarding guidance from local authorities and multi‑agency protocols (MARAC, social services) are also relevant.

General information only; not legal advice and not a substitute for advice on a particular matter.