Recorded sexual offenses in London have more than doubled since 2010, reaching 25,022 cases by last September.
A report found faults in the Home Office’s past actions. They needed to address violence against women and girls better. The recent number is slightly higher; last year the reported number was 24,534 incidents.
The number of sexual offenses more than doubled. In 2009-10, police recorded only 9,955 cases. Victim gender is not available in this data, however, most victims are usually female according to statistics.
A recent audit showed a rise in sexual assault cases. It jumped in women aged 16 to 59. The rate went from 3.4% to 4.3% between 2009-10 and the year’s end in March.
Police recorded more rape and sexual assault incidents. The number rose from 34,000 to 123,000. The audit suggests reporting improvements explain some of this.
The audit stated government efforts were not effective; they did not improve results for victims. It said the Home Office needed stronger leadership and they must have an effective response.
Conservatives historically spent less money. They underspent on their violence against women strategy. The underspending averaged about 15%.
Violence against women is getting worse. It affects one in twelve women. Labour promised to cut this violence in half and they plan to do this within the next decade.
To reach this goal the Home Office needs to lead. They must coordinate a full, better system response.
Chris Philp defended the Conservative record. He said the government took this very seriously and he mentioned Operation Soteria with the police. Academics helped identify perpetrators, he said.
The task force looked at the justice system. They worked to address violence against women. He said officials were truly committed to this work.
The police council developed Operation Soteria. Action was taken after a concern around investigations and it addressed rising violence against women. Experts and practitioners supported the forces.
A Home Office spokesperson commented on the report. They referenced delivery failures of the prior government. They will provide a major government response.
The Home Office claims a “step-change” is occurring. They say that immediate action is underway. This work aims to help protect victims and handle offenders.
The actions include new protection orders. They involve abuse specialists in control rooms. They will strengthen response to spiking and stalking.
The Home Office will not stop working on improvements. They want to have a system that effectively protects victims. They wish to improve justice and hold offenders accountable.