House of Lords committee seeks evidence on law’s impact, gaps, and effectiveness
A parliamentary committee has launched a formal call for evidence to assess the impact and effectiveness of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
The House of Lords Select Committee on the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 announced the inquiry on 20 March 2026. The committee, appointed on 27 January 2026, will examine how the legislation has operated since its introduction and is expected to report its findings by 30 November 2026.
The inquiry will evaluate whether the Act has achieved its intended objectives and identify any gaps in its provisions. As part of this process, the committee has invited submissions from a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals, organisations, professionals, and those with direct experience of domestic abuse.
The committee has outlined several key areas of focus. These include the statutory definition of domestic abuse and how effectively it reflects the realities of victims’ experiences. It will also examine the Act’s recognition of children as victims in their own right and how this aspect has been implemented in practice.
Another central issue is the role of local authorities and statutory agencies in delivering responsibilities under the Act. This includes the provision of safe accommodation and the effectiveness of multi-agency working arrangements designed to support victims.
The inquiry will also consider the role of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and the broader impact of the legislation on policing and the justice system. This includes scrutiny of how Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) are being used in criminal and family court settings.
In addition, the committee will assess the work of community-based service providers and the challenges they face in operating within the framework established by the Act. It will also explore prevention measures, including how to encourage earlier disclosure by victims and approaches to perpetrator intervention.
The impact of the legislation on different groups of victim-survivors will form part of the review, with particular attention to those from minoritised backgrounds. The committee will also consider any developments since the Act was passed that may have influenced its effectiveness.
Stakeholders are invited to submit evidence addressing these issues, as well as identifying any gaps in the current legal framework that may require reform.
The committee has stated that it is particularly interested in hearing from individuals with lived experience of domestic abuse, alongside contributions from specialist organisations, academics, local authorities, and frontline professionals.
The findings of the inquiry are expected to inform future policy considerations and potential legislative changes in this area.