Government Launches New Scheme to Tackle Serial Domestic Abusers
The government has pledged £53 million over the next four years to expand a behavioural intervention scheme aimed at reducing domestic abuse by working directly with high-risk perpetrators.
The Drive Project, which began in 2016, offers intensive, one-to-one case management for individuals known to commit domestic violence repeatedly. Alongside this, victims are assigned an independent domestic violence adviser (IDVA) for dedicated support. The programme has been piloted in Essex, South Wales, and West Sussex.
An independent evaluation by the University of Bristol found the Drive Project significantly reduced harmful behaviour, cutting physical abuse by 82%, sexual abuse by 88%, and harassment or stalking by 75%.
Based on those results, the government now plans to expand the scheme into 15 new areas by March 2026, with a full roll-out across England and Wales to follow.
Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips said the programme aims to give victims a “better and safer future” by addressing the root causes of abuse and changing the behaviour of those who cause harm. She stressed that perpetrators would still be subject to the full force of the law, noting that most domestic abuse offenders never go to prison.
The government is also allocating £230,000 for specially-trained plain-clothed officers to patrol nightlife areas and help tackle predatory behaviour in public spaces.
The initiative forms part of a broader approach to tackling violence against women and girls, which includes Labour’s commitment to halving such violence within a decade. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also used the announcement to promote a new “Civil Society Covenant”, which would introduce a stronger role for the third sector in government.
YMCA Together’s Response
Cheryll Hamid, Head of YMCA Together’s Domestic Abuse Services, said:
“It’s encouraging to see a focused intervention model that addresses high-risk and serial domestic abuse perpetrators.
The government’s approach reflects a growing recognition that to tackle domestic abuse effectively, we must engage with perpetrators and challenge their behaviour.
Investment in sustained, one-to-one case management is a step in the right direction.
However, while supportive interventions can play a role, the only effective way to stop perpetrators is to make them accountable. We must send a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated.
The criminal justice system is essential for holding individuals responsible for their actions through court proceedings and prison sentences. Without legal consequences, the cycle of harm is likely to continue, regardless of support interventions.
The evidence this pilot generates, particularly around reoffending rates, victim safety, and long-term behavioural change, will be key in informing wider domestic abuse strategies across the UK.
We look forward to seeing the outcomes of the scheme.”
Get Advice and support if you’re experiencing domestic abuse.