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Jersey Government Reports Progress on Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls

Jersey's government is making steady progress in addressing the recommendations put forward by the island's Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce, according to a new report.

In 2023, the taskforce issued 77 recommendations after research revealed that the majority of women in Jersey had experienced some form of gender-based violence. A year later, a government progress report shows that 27 of these recommendations have been completed, 42 are underway, six are awaiting updates, and eight have yet to be started.

The VAWG Taskforce was established in 2022 by Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Deputy Mary Le Hegarat. It conducted extensive consultations with survivors, children and young people, professionals, and members of the public to inform its findings.

The recommendations span several key areas, including training, education, and independent reviews. Among the completed actions are the development of a dataset to monitor harmful sexual behaviour and an increase in visible police presence in targeted areas.

However, some key recommendations have not yet been started. These include creating an educational programme for parents and reviewing the island’s domestic abuse legislation.

In March 2024, the government pledged to publish annual updates on its progress in implementing all 77 recommendations.

Deputy Le Hegarat welcomed the first annual report, describing the progress so far as “significant,” but stressed the importance of sustained commitment.

“I believe we can be proud of the progress achieved so far,” she said. “But there is considerable work ahead to achieve lasting change, and we remain committed to delivering on all of the taskforce's recommendations.”

She also highlighted that the taskforce uncovered a broader issue: gender-based violence in Jersey had long been a "hidden problem," with limited awareness and prioritisation contributing to the challenges in addressing it.

“My hope is that this annual report—and those that follow—will help keep this issue at the forefront of our collective efforts,” she added.