Please note, this statement includes the topic of suicide and self-harm.
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, help is available to you. In an emergency, always dial 999. 111, option 2. The service includes a triage service, support, or signposting as appropriate, and can be used to manage a mental health crisis or as an alternative to attending emergency departments or calling the police.
Samaritans
Call: 116 123
Online chat: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/chat-online/
Survivors of VAWDASV are more likely to experience poor mental health, with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder being particularly prevalent. This can have fatal outcomes, with 1 in 8 women attempting to take their lives as a result of experiencing domestic abuse. 33% of women who are raped contemplate suicide and 13% make a suicide attempt.
For too long, victims who feel the only escape is to take their own lives have been the forgotten story of the consequences of domestic abuse. Now, with changes in the way that this data is collected, we are hearing the devastating consequences of domestic abuse. 150 people have unfortunately died by suicide between 1st April 2024 and 31st March 2025 as a result of domestic abuse.
Women make up 73% of these statistics, with most suspects already being known to the police. This shows that many opportunities to keep victims safe are being missed and loved ones are being left with the devastating consequences of a failure to support. We also recognise that not all survivors or victims choose to disclose to the police, meaning that any statistic is likely an underestimation.
We must also acknowledge the impact on children and young people. 18.2% of victims were between the ages of 16 to 19. Growing up experiencing domestic abuse can have a deeply traumatic impact on development, affecting future relationships, feelings of safety and mental wellbeing. These fatal outcomes underline a need for urgent support for children and young people, in a climate where funding is being cut for these specialist services.
It is important for all future survivors and victims that we do not let these statistics pass us by. We need to reflect on what serious actions need to be taken to ensure that every space is a safe space. These are not isolated or unpredictable incidents, they are the result of sustained patterns of harm.
To read the report, click here: Domestic Homicide Project – VKPP Work
To read more on the mental health impacts of violence against women and girls, read our State of the System report: State of the System 2026
If you or anyone you know needs support, help is available to you now. The Live Fear Free Helpline can provide confidential advice or support around domestic abuse, sexual violence or violence against women. It is available 24/7, 7 days a week. Call 0808 80 10 800, text 07860077333 or email [email protected]. You can also access the Live Fear Free Helpline online chat by heading to: https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free/contact-live-fear-free.