...NOW MEL B CALLS ON POLITICIANS TO MAKE IT ‘KEY ELECTION ISSUE’

FORMER Spice Girl Mel B has called for domestic abuse to be prioritised as a “key election issue”.

The singer, whose full name is Melanie Brown, has previously shared her personal experiences on the issue.

The patron of the Women’s Aid charity said: “Domestic abuse isn’t like other issues as so many affected just can’t safely speak out and tell you, but it is everywhere and I’m telling you today lives are at risk, and women in particular need you.

“No matter which political party you are in, I’m asking you for your commitment today that domestic abuse is an issue you will prioritise.”

Nearly one in five crimes recorded by the police are domestic abuse related, the charity said.

The economic and social costs of domestic abuse in England were just under £78billion.

Farah Nazeer, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said: “We urge all political parties to take a whole-system response to tackling violence against women and girls.

“By prioritising the needs of women and child survivors, including those experiencing the most extreme forms of marginalisation, the whole of society will benefit.”

The charity wants political parties to commit to their three key pillars for change.

Understanding

They are funding for specialist women’s services, delivering an adequate response to domestic abuse the first time and transforming societal attitudes and understanding.

An estimated 1.7 million women suffered domestic abuse in England and Wales in the year ending March 2022.

Mel, 47, has previously accused her ex-husband Stephen Belafonte, 48, of “emotional and physical abuse”, which he has vehemently denied.