Today, 28th April 2026, findings from the Domestic Homicide Project show that for a third-year running, suspected suicides following domestic abuse have overtaken the number of homicides involving current or former partners.
Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, Dame Nicole Jacobs, said: “Once again, these heartbreaking figures show we are not doing enough to tackle domestic abuse or address the lasting impact it has on people’s lives.
“While I welcome the progress to identify and record these deaths, we know many of these victims will have been in contact with agencies numerous times before they died. It is inexcusable that more is not being done to ensure victims get the support and protection they need before it’s too late.
“Enough is enough. The police must check for a history of domestic abuse and properly investigate when an unexpected death occurs – and all agencies need to work more closely together, share information and be better trained to spot patterns of escalating behaviour, so we can bring perpetrators to justice and support victims.
“Ultimately, no one should feel like they have no way out of abuse. The government must ensure funding is available so victims and survivors can access the specialist services and mental health support needed to live safe and free from abuse.”