Criticism Over Delay in Violence Against Women Strategy

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, September 26, 2026

Campaigners have criticized the UK government for delays and insufficient measures in developing a comprehensive strategy to tackle violence against women, amid ongoing debates over funding and protections for single-sex spaces. The government recently initiated a national inquiry into group-based and child exploitation, but faces mounting pressure to implement stronger actions and cultural changes to better support victims and address systemic failures.

Campaigners have expressed frustration over delays in the UK government’s development of a comprehensive strategy to address violence against women, citing concerns about insufficient funding and weak protections for single-sex spaces, including in sports. The criticism comes amid ongoing debate over how best to tackle gender-based violence and exploitation.

Jess Phillips, the former minister responsible for violence against women and girls (VAWG), resigned earlier this year, citing the government’s failure to adequately address online abuse and broader issues connected to violence against women. Her departure underscored growing dissatisfaction within Labour ranks and advocacy groups over the pace and scope of government action under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The issue of grooming gangs, particularly involving groups of Asian men targeting underage white girls, has also been a contentious point during Sir Keir’s premiership. Both Reform and Conservative parties have repeatedly pressured Labour over the handling of these cases. Initially, Labour resisted calls for a national inquiry, which drew further criticism from opposition parties and campaigners demanding a more transparent and robust response.

In recent months, the government has launched a national inquiry aimed at addressing group-based and child exploitation. Labour MP Jonny Phillipson welcomed the inquiry, emphasizing the need to confront root causes. He highlighted how socioeconomic factors complicated the response to the gangs scandal, noting that working-class girls who reported abuse often faced disbelief and neglect from authorities. “There was a total failure to listen to women, to believe women, especially working-class girls who were reporting unimaginable abuse but weren’t taken seriously,” Phillipson said, adding that cultural change in society is essential to improving protection and justice for victims.

The debate continues as campaigners call for accelerated government action, increased funding, and stronger legislative measures to protect vulnerable women and girls, both online and offline. The Starmer administration faces pressure to deliver a clearer, more effective strategy to combat violence against women amid rising public concern and political scrutiny.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.