Rise in suicides linked to domestic abuse in England and Wales

Official figures reveal a significant increase in suicides among victims of domestic abuse in England and Wales.

In the year to March 2025, 150 suspected suicides were recorded, up from 98 in the previous 12 months, according to data from the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC).

The rise is partly attributed to improved awareness and changes in reporting practices, including a new requirement for officers to check for a history of domestic abuse at scenes of suicides and unexpected deaths.

The Domestic Homicide Project reported 347 deaths linked to domestic abuse in the same period, including 80 intimate partner homicides.

Women accounted for 73% of the suicides, with most victims being ethnically white.

The majority of suspects were male, many of whom were previously known to the police.

Young people aged 16 to 24 were disproportionately affected, with 8% of victims in this age group and a notably higher proportion of victims aged 16 to 19 compared to those 25 and older.

Louisa Rolfe, the NPCC's national police lead for domestic abuse, highlighted the potential influence of dangerous internet content, such as violent pornography and toxic online influencers, in contributing to cases involving teenagers.

The domestic abuse commissioner for England and Wales emphasized that many victims had prior contact with agencies before their deaths, indicating systemic failures in providing adequate support and protection.

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