Increase maximum sentence for coercive control to 10 years. We want the law to truly reflect the damage this abuse causes. Coercive control can destroy lives, isolate victims, erode their freedom, and leave lasting emotional scars. Many survivors never fully recover.

We believe the punishment should reflect this. Some victims may even be forced into or out of pregnancy through reproductive coercion. Yet this crime carries a lighter sentence than severe stalking. We believe victims deserve justice that reflects the pain and lifelong impact of this abuse — the maximum sentence should increase to 10 years. We believe it’s time the law recognised coercive control for what it is: a relentless, life-altering form of abuse that deserves equal justice.