Leading women’s groups have today (14 August) published a short report on the numerous new problems women are facing in the criminal and family justice systems due to COVID, and have called on the Government to show curiosity and leadership to alleviate these, alongside resourcing and measures to keep children safe.

This joint briefing seeks to highlight how the difficulties women and girls already have in accessing justice and protection, from both the criminal and family courts, are being exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, with new barriers to justice and protection caused by the necessary public health measures. The paper looks at what may change in terms of women’s access to justice and protection as restrictions ease, and as our society adapts to ongoing vigilance and preparedness for reintroduction of public health restrictions.

The full report can be read here.