Abusers let off with apology, says charity

POLICE are dealing with domestic abuse cases by simply making abusers say sorry to their partner on the doorstep, a report has found.

Research by the Fawcett Society charity found a “worrying number” of domestic violence incidents are resolved using the most basic level of restorative justice, which “can often be little more than an apology”.

In one force, 54 per cent of cases were dealt with using the method, according to evidence from a Durham University study.

“Guidance must be strengthened to make clear that ‘street level’ restorative justice should not be used in cases of domestic abuse or sexual violence, and data should be collected to ensure forces are held accountable,” the report said.

Sam Smethers, chief executive of the Fawcett Society, said the practice left women in a “powerless” position where they are asked to accept an abuser’s apology.

“It is almost certainly going to put her in a very risky position,” she told The Daily Telegraph.

In other cases, local authorities are using “written agreements” which meant that women could lose their children if they had any contact with a former partner.

Ms Smethers said this meant in some cases that they did not seek help. “It places the onus on them in a situation where they are not the perpetrator,” she said.