Submitted on Sunday 11th January 2026
Rejected on Tuesday 10th February 2026
Current status: Rejected
Rejection code: already-happening (see below for details)
Make Post Separation abuse a specific offence
As survivors we call for mandatory post-separation abuse training across all statutory bodies; extension of Claire’s Law after separation; PSA as a stand-alone offence; automatic restraining orders; extended survivor protection; and PSA education in all prevention and perpetrator programmes.
Post-separation abuse is one of the most overlooked forms of domestic abuse. For many survivors, leaving does not end the harm — it escalates. Perpetrators use child contact, the courts, finances and ongoing harassment to maintain control. Without recognition as a specific offence, this abuse is minimised and misunderstood. Naming post-separation abuse in law would validate survivors’ experiences, close dangerous gaps, and ensure accountability where it belongs.
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The Government e-Petitions Team gave the following reason:
Controlling or coercive behaviour is a crime in England and Wales under section 76 of the Serious Crime Act (2015). This law highlights that domestic abuse is often a purposeful pattern of behaviour.
The Domestic Abuse Act (2021) for England and Wales extended this offence to include post-separation abuse. This changed the law so that controlling or coercive behaviour can now potentially be prosecuted as a criminal offence even if the parties are no longer in a relationship and are not living together.
216.73.217.50 Sun, 21 Jun 2026 01:33:23 +0100
