Cross-government definition of domestic violence consultation

The government launched this consultation to ask for views on whether the current cross-government definition of domestic violence should be widened. It also sought views on whether the current definition is being applied consistently across government, and if it is understood by practitioners, victims and perpetrators.

There are four options for consideration in this consultation:

• 1 - the definition of domestic violence remains the same
• 2 - the definition of domestic violence is amended to include coercive control
• 3 - the government’s definition of domestic violence is extended to all 16- to 17-year-olds
• 4 - the government’s definition of domestic violence is extended to all those under 18

The consultation sought the views of key partners and directly affected parties, including the police, practitioners, other government departments and organisations with a direct interest in preventing domestic violence.